šŸ”” Stay Updated!

Get instant alerts on breaking news, top stories, and updates from News EiSamay.

UIDAI to retire mAadhaar app as users shift to new Aadhaar platform, pushes privacy features

The new Aadhaar app promises tighter privacy and easier verification, but users must manually set up profiles again.

By Sarwesh Sri Bardhan

May 16, 2026 22:19 IST

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has said the mAadhaar app will be retired soon and has asked users to migrate to its new Aadhaar app, which is available on Android and iOS.

According to UIDAI’s post on X, the transition is meant to offer a ā€œsmarter, faster, and more secure digital journeyā€ for Aadhaar users.

Also Read | Apple and Google told to pull Uber, Ola and Rapido apps in Maharashtra amid crackdown

The new app had arrived well before the fuss

The platform had already been introduced before the latest retirement advisory.

The new app was formally listed by UIDAI on its website as ā€œNew Aadhaar App unveiled; it reimagines identity verification, keeping people at its coreā€ on February 27, 2026.

UIDAI’s website also highlights a media telecast on the app being designed around the principle of data minimization, underscoring the privacy-first positioning of the service.

No more waving papers

The app’s main features include QR-based Aadhaar sharing, offline identity verification, face authentication support, biometric lock controls, and improved privacy options, according to Gadgets 360.

The app can also be used for selective information sharing, allowing users to choose what details to share.

The app supports multiple Aadhaar profiles on a single device. It is meant to reduce the need to hand over physical copies of Aadhaar cards in routine verification.

The migration, alas, requires fresh introductions

UIDAI has also said that the older app’s stored information will not move across automatically.

The existing users will need to download the new app and manually set up their Aadhaar profile again after registration.

Users can install the app from official Android or iOS stores, verify their mobile number with an OTP, and complete face authentication or other security checks during setup.

Also Read | DJ stand worth Rs 3.15 crore? BMW XM shocks viewers with a stunning tranformation

One app, several profiles, and a touch of order

The new Aadhaar app supports 13 Indian languages and allows users to store up to five Aadhaar profiles for family members. Users can also update Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers and addresses directly through the app.

UIDAI has not clarified whether old mAadhaar data will be migrated at a later stage, leaving manual setup as the current route for users shifting to the new platform.

Articles you may like: