UIDAI to launch new Aadhaar app enabling paperless, selective ID sharing
According to the authority, the upcoming application will encourage offline digital verification of Aadhaar holders and reduce the use of physical and photocopied Aadhaar cards.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing to launch a new Aadhaar app that will enable paperless identity sharing and give users the option to verify and share complete or selective information linked to their Aadhaar number, an official statement said on Wednesday.
UIDAI recently conducted an informative webinar on “Offline Verification using the Aadhaar App,” attended by over 250 entities and individuals from multiple sectors, ahead of the app’s formal roll-out.
The Aadhaar ecosystem, introduced in 2010, has grown into one of the world’s largest digital identity programmes with over 1.3 billion holders. In recent years, UIDAI has increasingly focused on strengthening privacy safeguards and reducing dependence on physical documents to curb misuse and data exposure.
According to the authority, the upcoming application will encourage offline digital verification of Aadhaar holders and reduce the use of physical and photocopied Aadhaar cards.
“Upcoming Aadhaar app to facilitate paperless identity sharing, option to verify and share complete or selective Aadhaar information, Aadhaar updates,” the statement said.
Under the Aadhaar Act, offline verification is permitted, but the collection, use or storage of Aadhaar numbers or biometric data by entities is prohibited, except as specifically allowed. The new app is being positioned as a compliant mechanism for identity authentication without requesting the Aadhaar number itself.
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar said during the webinar that the new Aadhaar app and its supporting technology would help promote offline verification, strengthen the ecosystem around it, and increase awareness about the method’s features and safeguards.
Kumar highlighted that offline verification provides a secure, convenient and privacy-protecting method for identity verification and reduces the reliance on physical Aadhaar copies, which can otherwise expose users to potential fraudulent practices.
Officials also noted that increasing the use of offline verification aligns with UIDAI’s broader effort to minimise data exposure, reduce risks of Aadhaar misuse in everyday transactions, and support stronger compliance among institutions using Aadhaar for KYC and authentication.
The authority outlined multiple features that will be available to Aadhaar number holders once the new app is introduced.
“UIDAI authorities underlined multiple benefits for Aadhaar Number Holders like having Aadhaar details of up to five family members in the App; full control over what data of Aadhaar is shared; flexibility to disclose complete or selective Aadhaar information, one-click biometric lock or unlock for enhanced security and features like hassle-free mobile number and address update options,” the statement said.
The app is expected to replace several existing fragmented processes, such as separate portals for updates and offline XML downloads, with a consolidated interface that prioritises user control and transparency.
A formal launch date for the new Aadhaar app has not yet been announced.
(With inputs from PTI.)