In a major push towards digital identity management, the Government of India has launched a new Aadhaar mobile application that allows citizens to verify their identity digitally without the need for physical Aadhaar cards or photocopies. Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, introduced the app via a video on social media platform X, highlighting its modern features such as facial recognition authentication and secure, consent-based data sharing.

Currently released in its beta phase, the app aims to simplify Aadhaar verification while enhancing user privacy and protection against misuse. It features a redesigned, user-friendly interface and several advanced functionalities that improve upon the previous version. Among the most notable additions is the facial recognition feature, which allows users to verify their Aadhaar identity directly through their smartphone, removing the need for physical documentation and reducing risks associated with carrying paper copies.

The new app offers a range of digital-first benefits. It enables users to share only the required information with authorized parties, ensuring personal data is controlled and safeguarded. Aadhaar verification can now be performed by scanning QR codes—similar to UPI payments—making the process faster and more secure. The app completely removes the need for printed Aadhaar cards in situations like hotel check-ins, travel checkpoints, or official identity verification.

UIDAI is currently offering the app as an early-access version to a select group of users, including participants from the Aadhaar Samvaad event. This limited rollout will help gather user feedback and insights from partners to improve the application before a full-scale public release. UIDAI has stated that the final version of the app will be made available soon after incorporating feedback to ensure maximum reliability and efficiency.

One of the most innovative features of the app is its QR code integration for identity verification. Just like UPI QR codes are now common across retail and services, Aadhaar verification QR codes will soon be introduced at major points such as airports, hotels, and railway stations. When prompted for identification, users will simply scan the QR code with the app, and their identity will be verified in real-time using facial recognition, allowing secure Aadhaar data transfer directly from their phone.

The shift to paperless verification also brings significant security advantages. Digital Aadhaar sharing eliminates the possibility of document loss, theft, or tampering. Face ID-based biometric authentication adds an extra layer of security, ensuring only the rightful owner can authorize access to their Aadhaar details. This new approach to verification is not only more secure but also highly efficient, making it a key step in India’s journey towards a fully digital, privacy-focused ecosystem for identity management.