New Delhi: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has already introduced a new Aadhaar application that should make it more secure and convenient to manage digital identities. The application also comes up with face recognition and biometric lock functions and a QR code sharing option, so the user is able to view and confirm their Aadhaar data on their smartphones. Using the new application, residents are able to have their Aadhaar in digital form, share authenticated information and manage more than one profile.
The redesigned Aadhaar application can offer an entirely electronic and safe means of retrieving identity information, according to UIDAI. It enables offline validation and enables the users to monitor their Aadhaar usage, track transaction records, and see whether their Aadhaar is in use. More control over their data is also provided to the users with the app, such as locking their profile with biometrics and the updates of their profile in real time.
Key features of the new Aadhaar app
1. Multiple profiles
There is a maximum of five Aadhaar profiles which can be attached to one registered mobile number. This can be utilised by households which share a phone number. Nonetheless, a single profile may be active on a device at once, and clicking a profile in one device will automatically deactivate a profile on the previous device.
2. Locking and unlocking using biometrics
It is a unique property that increases the level of security of data by locking biometric data like fingerprints and iris scans. When locked, the data is secure until the user can unlock it temporarily or turn off the feature.
3. Profile updates
This app will automatically show current Aadhaar information upon any successful change request such that users will always have the latest version of their identities.
4. Verifiable credentials and QR codes
The Aadhaar details of the users can be easily shared with the help of the QR codes or verifiable credentials, and official and private services can be rapidly and paperlessly verified.
5. Offline access
Offline verification is easy and can be done with high accuracy because of the ability of the app to scan Aadhaar QR codes without an internet connection.
mAadhaar vs the new Aadhaar app
Although the former mAadhaar app was more of a mobile companion of the Aadhaar, UIDAI has not stated the exact differences between mAadhaar and the new Aadhaar app. The most recent version, however, gives more emphasis on multi-profile support, improved security and the incorporation of verifiable credentials to use digitally.
Aadhaar app downloading and installation
Step 1: Obtain the app through the official source provided by UIDAI in social media.
Step 2: Type an SMS on your mobile phone number registered under Aadhaar when required.
Step 3: Finalise face recognition in the registration process.
Step 4: Set a numeric password of 6 digits to increase security.
Step 5: It is noted that the download of Aadhaar profiles is possible only through the devices that have the registered mobile number.