In a major step towards digital convenience and security, the government has launched a new Aadhaar app featuring facial recognition-based authentication and digital verification, eliminating the need to carry physical Aadhaar cards or photocopies.
Union Minister for Information and Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, launched the app during the third edition of Aadhaar Samvaad. Sharing a video demo on X (formerly Twitter), he highlighted the app’s key features such as Face ID authentication, QR code scanning, and secure data sharing with user consent.
Highlighting the app’s convenience, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that there will no longer be a need to hand over Aadhaar photocopies at hotels, shops, or during travel. He added that Aadhaar verification will now be as simple and seamless as making a UPI payment.
The app, currently in beta testing, allows users to verify and share only essential Aadhaar details digitally, with complete control over their data. Just like scanning a QR code to make a payment, users can now scan a verification code at hotels, airports, and other locations to authenticate their identity instantly.
Key Features of the New Aadhaar App
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Face ID authentication for secure identity verification
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QR code-based Aadhaar verification, similar to UPI scans
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No need for physical cards or photocopies
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Real-time, secure sharing of Aadhaar details
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Strong privacy controls and protection against misuse or forgery
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User-friendly interface for a seamless experience
Built in collaboration with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the app is currently available to a select group of users, including participants of the Aadhaar Samvaad event. UIDAI plans a wider rollout after incorporating feedback from early users.
The facial recognition technology integrated into the app adds an extra layer of security, ensuring that only the actual Aadhaar holder can approve any data sharing. With this move, Aadhaar verification is expected to become faster, safer, and completely paperless.
According to UIDAI, Aadhaar’s facial authentication system is already witnessing over 15 crore transactions per month across various sectors. The new app is expected to boost this further by making verification more accessible and secure.
