Strong public adoption of new Aadhaar App, 21 million downloads in three months

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Electronics & IT reports that the new Aadhaar App reached 21 million downloads within its first three months as of May 6, 2026. Designed for secure, paperless identity sharing, the app allows users to update personal details and manage biometric security digitally. The release highlights the app's growing role in enhancing "ease of living" through diverse real-world applications and advanced verification features. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Adoption and Usage Statistics** * The app achieved over 21 million downloads within three months of its launch. * More than 2.8 million people have successfully updated their mobile numbers via the application. * Nearly 600,000 users have utilized the app to update their residential addresses. * **Advanced Security and Privacy Features** * Next-generation design focuses on a "privacy-first" approach for carrying and sharing identity. * Includes face verification for proof of presence and a one-click biometric lock/unlock feature. * Provides users with access to their authentication history and consent control for selective data sharing. * **Functionality and Use Cases** * Replaces physical visiting cards with a QR-based editable contact card for easy sharing of details. * Supports Offline Verification Seeking Entity (OVSE) QR code scanning for hotel check-ins. * Facilitates digital processes for age gating, hospital admissions, visitor management, and event entries. * Enables identity verification for gig workers and service partners. * **Platform Availability** * The application is available for download on both Android (Google Play Store) and Apple iOS platforms. **Impact Analysis** **Aadhaar Number Holders (ANH)** **Impact** Users benefit from increased accessibility to essential services and greater control over their identity data. The app provides a secure way to update records and share information without physical documents, enhancing "ease of living." **Action Required** Download the official application on Android or iOS to manage identity services, update contact details, and utilize biometric security features. **Service Providers (Hotels, Hospitals, and Event Organizers)** **Impact** These entities can streamline check-ins and admissions using QR-based scanning and face verification, reducing the need for physical paperwork and manual data entry. **Action Required** Adopt the app’s Offline Verification Seeking Entity (OVSE) scanning and verification tools to verify the identity of visitors, patients, or guests. **Gig Workers and Service Partners** **Impact** Provides a convenient and paperless method to prove identity for employment and service delivery purposes. **Action Required** Utilize the app's sharing and verification functions to provide secure identity proof to relevant service entities.

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