The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) — the government body responsible for issuing Aadhaar cards — has launched a revamped Aadhaar mobile application that promises to radically change how citizens interact with their most essential digital identity document. Released on January 28, 2026, the new Aadhaar app replaces the older version and brings numerous progressive features designed to enhance convenience, security, and user control over personal data.
This article breaks down everything you need to know: from the app’s key features and benefits to step-by-step usage, security safeguards, and practical insights on updating your mobile number and address from the comfort of your home.
Why UIDAI Redesigned the Aadhaar App?
Aadhaar — the 12-digit unique identity number issued to Indian residents — is used for countless services, from opening bank accounts and filing taxes to accessing government welfare schemes and checking into hotels. Yet until now, digitally managing your Aadhaar identity required separate tools or visiting an Aadhaar centre for updates like changing your mobile number or address.
The new Aadhaar app aims to solve these pain points by:
- Centralizing digital identity management.
- Removing reliance on physical Aadhaar cards and photocopies.
- Allowing in-app updates for demographic information such as mobile number and address.
It’s an important step toward a simplified, paperless, and secure identity ecosystem in India.
Key Features of the New Aadhaar App
Let’s explore the most significant features of this updated app that set it apart from older versions and third-party alternatives.
Digital Aadhaar — No Physical Card Needed
The app serves as a digital Aadhaar wallet, meaning users no longer have to carry a plastic card or photocopies for identity verification. The digital card within the app is recognized for official and informal verifications alike.
This alone eliminates a major inconvenience for millions of Aadhaar holders who often forget or misplace their cards.
Enhanced Privacy & Selective Sharing
A central feature of the new app is Selective Share — a privacy-first approach that lets users share only the information needed for a specific purpose. For example, if a hotel only needs to verify your identity, you can share your name and age without exposing your Aadhaar number or sensitive details.
This minimizes data exposure and helps prevent misuse or unnecessary data collection.
Biometric Lock & Secure Authentication
The app introduces biometric locking, enabling users to manually lock their fingerprint, facial, and iris biometric data — preventing unauthorized use if a phone is lost or compromised.
Additionally, facial authentication is used for login and critical actions, which adds another layer of verification beyond OTPs and passwords.
QR Code Verification & Offline Access
Now, users can display a QR code on their phones that contains encrypted Aadhaar details for verification. This approach supports offline verification, meaning a third party can authenticate the user’s identity without accessing the Aadhaar number itself. This is especially useful in areas with limited internet connectivity.
Manage Multiple Profiles
If you manage Aadhaar details for family members, the app allows you to store up to five Aadhaar profiles on the same device, provided they’re linked to the same mobile number. This streamlines multiple-member households’ identity management in a single place.
View Authentication History
Users can see when and where their Aadhaar was authenticated, giving transparency over which services have accessed Aadhaar data. This helps users monitor suspicious activities and maintain control of their identity.
Mobile Number & Address Update from Home
One of the biggest breakthroughs in this version is the ability to update your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and residential address directly in the app — no centre visits required. This is a long-awaited feature that simplifies what used to be a tedious, time-consuming process.
Prior to this update, changing these critical details often meant visiting an Aadhaar enrolment centre — a major hurdle for residents in remote areas or those with limited mobility. The app now handles such updates using digital verification and supported document uploads.
How to Download & Install the New Aadhaar App
The app is available for Android and iOS devices:
- Android: Find it on the Google Play Store.
- iPhone (iOS): Search for it in the Apple App Store.
After installing the app:
- Open it and log in using your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
- Authenticate using OTP and face biometrics.
- Set up a secure login pin or biometric lock.
- Start using features like digital Aadhaar display and selective sharing.
Note: If you already have the previous Aadhaar app installed, ensure you update it to the latest version to access all new functionality.
Step-by-Step: Update Mobile Number in New Aadhaar App
Here’s how you can update your registered mobile number:
- Open the new Aadhaar app and sign in.
- Navigate to ‘Update Details’ or ‘Profile Settings’.
- Select Mobile Number.
- Enter your new mobile number.
- Receive and verify with OTP on the new number.
- Complete facial authentication.
- Submit the update for processing.
Once done and verified, your Aadhaar record will reflect the new mobile number.
This feature eliminates queues, saves travel time, and makes management easier for users nationwide.
Step-by-Step: Change Your Address in New Aadhaar App
Changing your Aadhaar address via the app is equally user-friendly:
- Go to the Address Update section in the app.
- Enter the new address details.
- Upload valid proof of address documents (e.g., utility bills, rental agreement).
- Verify via OTP and facial authentication.
- Submit for verification.
The app will guide you on acceptable documents and help ensure your submission is complete to avoid delays.
This function is especially helpful for users who move frequently, such as students, workers, and professionals.
Security & Privacy: Trusted by Design
While the app brings convenience, security remains a central focus:
Selective Data Sharing
You remain in control of which details to share — for example, you may choose to show only your name and age for age verification, omitting address and Aadhaar number.
Offline Verification Reduces Risks
Offline QR verification protects data by keeping it encrypted and not transmitting sensitive details over networks — minimizing exposure.
Biometric Lock Protects Identity
Biometric locks prevent unauthorized use of fingerprints or face scans, which are otherwise used widely in Aadhaar authentication.
Authentication History for Transparency
Track where and when your Aadhaar was accessed so you can catch any suspicious usage early.
Benefits for Citizens
Here’s what the new Aadhaar app means for everyday users:
- Digital identity anytime, anywhere — no more lost cards.
- Home-based updates for mobile number and address.
- Less waiting time and no queues at enrolment centres.
- Family profiles in one place.
- Stronger privacy and data controls.
- Offline verification and selective sharing.
These enhancements are especially beneficial for senior citizens, people living in rural areas, and anyone who has struggled with traditional Aadhaar update procedures.
Potential Challenges & Tips
Despite its advantages, users should be aware of a few challenges:
Document Upload Mistakes
Incorrect or unclear address proof uploads can get requests rejected — as seen in some user reports. Always snap documents clearly and follow the app’s guidelines.
OTP Limitations
Changing mobile numbers still requires access to OTPs — meaning you must have access to either the old or new mobile number to receive OTP codes.
What’s Next for the App?
UIDAI is expected to roll out additional capabilities over time, such as expanded demographic updates (e.g., email, full name changes) — though some of these may still require additional checks or documentation. This evolution aligns with the authority’s vision of a fully digital Aadhaar ecosystem.
Conclusion
The new Aadhaar app launched by UIDAI marks a significant leap forward in digital identity management in India. With features like mobile number update, address change, QR-based verification, biometric locks, and selective sharing, the app offers an efficient, secure, and user-centric way to manage Aadhaar identity.
Whether you need to update your contact details, access your digital Aadhaar card, or share selective identity information securely, this revamped app brings all these functionalities to your fingertips — transforming Aadhaar from a physical document into a powerful digital identity tool for the 21st century.
FAQs
What is the new Aadhaar app?
It’s the updated mobile application by UIDAI to manage your Aadhaar digitally — including viewing your Aadhaar, sharing it securely, and updating details like mobile number and address.
Can I update my mobile number in the new app?
Yes — the app now allows updating your registered mobile number directly from your phone without visiting an Aadhaar centre.
Can I change my address using the app?
Yes — the app supports address updates using proof documents within the app.
Do I still need to visit an Aadhaar centre for updates?
For biometric changes (like fingerprints, iris, or photo) you still need to visit a centre, but basic demographic updates can be done digitally.
Is my Aadhaar number safe in the app?
Yes — the app includes privacy features like QR code sharing and selective data display so you don’t have to show your full Aadhaar number every time.
Do I need the old mobile number to update to a new one?
Often your old number is used to verify your profile in the app, so having access to it may help complete the update smoothly.
Related Blog: Aadhaar Card Update
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