Aadhaar is a key instrument that helps the government manage the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). In addition to being a proof of identity and address, Aadhaar helps ascertain the authenticity of various documents such as PAN card, EPIC card, ration card, and other financial instruments such as savings accounts, mutual funds, loans, credit cards, etc. It is also required for availing all government subsidies through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
UIDAI provides the mAadhaar app that helps users manage their Aadhaar profile on their smartphones. However, with the advent of AI and new technological advancements, the government is planning to launch a new Aadhaar app that will utilise new technology to provide all Aadhaar-related facilities on one platform and safeguard a user’s sensitive personal information from misuse.
Let us understand how the new Aadhaar app is aimed at improving our overall experience and assisting in availing numerous facilities through a single platform.
Key Highlights of the New Aadhaar App
- One App for All Services
The new Aadhaar app shall allow users to download Aadhaar card online, update demographic details, complete KYC for various products and access all linked services on a single platform. Users need not switch to multiple platforms for specific tasks related to Aadhaar.
- Face Authentication Without OTP
The new Aadhaar app will enable users to authenticate their identity simply by using the facial recognition feature. Aadhaar holders would not be required to provide OTP or biometrics for authentication.
- Offline Aadhaar Sharing
The new Aadhaar app shall enable you to share Aadhaar details using a masked QR code. You will no longer be needed to share your Aadhaar number for authentication. This will prevent breach of your documents and thus improve your privacy.
- Simplified KYC Process
The new app shall allow all users to complete their KYC for various instruments related to banks, telecom operators, etc. online. There will be no requirement to submit an Aadhaar copy for each and every service if the KYC is done through the new Aadhaar app.
- Full Control & Transparency
This new initiative shall empower you to track all instances wherever your Aadhaar was used. You shall also get access to manage your data on your own through the app. You will also get an option to revoke the permission given to an authority once the authentication is done. It will provide an added layer of security for your Aadhaar card.
- Aadhaar-linked Services Dashboard
There is a provision in the app to show all services linked to your Aadhaar card. This shall include various instruments such as PAN card, voter ID, UAN, etc. and financial products such as bank accounts, loans, mutual funds, NPS investments, etc.
Apart from that, all government service shall also be mentioned for which you have registered in the past either to avail a subsidy or to benefit from it in one way or the other.
- Privacy-First Architecture
The best part of this initiative is that the data displayed in the app would be completely encrypted and accessible only to the Aadhaarholder. This would help safeguard data from breach and would provide a secure identity ownership to the Aadhaarholder.
Important Points Related to the New Aadhaar App
- The app uses state-of-the-art technology to provide the services
- Your mobile number should be registered with your Aadhaar to avail services provided by the app
- The same mobile number should be operated in the smartphone that has been added in the Aadhaar profile
- One can add only those Aadhaar accounts to one app that have the same registered mobile number
- The new Aadhaar app shall be accessible on the android as well as the iOS platform.
Also Read: How to Link Mobile Number with Aadhaar
When will the New Aadhaar App be Launched
The app has been launched in beta mode right now and is accessible to a select few. However, it shall be rolled out for the larger audience soon.
Fee for Using the New Aadhaar App
UIDAI would not charge any fee from Aadhaar users for using the app or availing any service. However, online address update would be charged at par with that on the online portal.
