No more long queues at the Aadhaar centre for small changes. The new Aadhaar app from UIDAI lets you update your mobile number, address and email ID directly from your phone, and the email update is completely free until December 31, 2026. The app has already crossed 4 crore downloads since its launch in January 2026.
In this guide, you will learn how to set up the new Aadhaar app, update your details step by step, lock your biometrics, and share your Aadhaar safely using a QR code instead of a photocopy.
What Is the New Aadhaar App?
The new Aadhaar app is UIDAI’s official mobile app that replaces the older mAadhaar app. It works on Android and iPhone and puts most Aadhaar services in one place: digital Aadhaar, face authentication, profile updates, biometric lock and secure sharing.
Usage numbers shared by UIDAI and reported in July 2026 show how popular it has become:
| Service | Usage |
|---|---|
| Total downloads | Over 4 crore |
| Email addresses added | About 1.25 crore |
| Addresses updated | About 1.16 crore |
| Mobile numbers updated | About 49 lakh |
| Biometric lock/unlock used | Over 1.9 crore times |
7 Best Features of the New Aadhaar App
- Update details from your phone: Change your mobile number, address and email ID without visiting a centre.
- Face authentication: Verify yourself using a selfie scan instead of OTP or fingerprints.
- QR-based sharing: Share only the details needed, such as name and photo, through an encrypted QR code.
- Biometric lock: Lock or unlock your fingerprints and iris with one tap to prevent misuse.
- e-Aadhaar download: Download your e-Aadhaar and view your authentication history.
- Offline verification: Hotels and other verifying agencies can scan your QR code without needing a photocopy.
- Family profiles: Manage up to five Aadhaar profiles on one phone, which is useful for parents and elderly family members.
How to Download and Set Up the New Aadhaar App
- Download the official Aadhaar app published by UIDAI from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store, or use the link on uidai.gov.in.
- Open the app and choose your preferred language.
- Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and accept the terms.
- Verify with the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-registered mobile number.
- Complete face authentication by following the on-screen selfie instructions.
- Set a secure PIN to open the app in the future.
Safety tip: Only download the app published by UIDAI. Fake “Aadhaar update” apps and links sent through WhatsApp or SMS are common scams.
How to Update Email in Aadhaar for Free
From July 1, 2026, UIDAI has waived the ₹75 fee for adding or updating your email ID through the new Aadhaar app. This free offer is valid until December 31, 2026.
- Open the new Aadhaar app and log in with your PIN.
- Tap Update or My Aadhaar Update and select Email ID.
- Enter your new email address.
- Verify the email with the OTP sent to it.
- Confirm with face authentication and submit.
- Save the Update Request Number (URN) to track the status.
Adding an email to Aadhaar is useful because UIDAI sends authentication alerts to your email, helping you spot misuse early.
How to Update Mobile Number Through the App
For years, changing your Aadhaar mobile number required a visit to an enrolment centre. The new Aadhaar app now supports mobile number updates, and nearly 49 lakh people have already used it.
- Log in to the app and tap Update Mobile Number.
- Enter your new mobile number and verify it with OTP.
- Complete face authentication to confirm it is you.
- Pay the fee if shown, and submit the request.
- Note the URN and track the status inside the app.
If the option is not available for your account, book an appointment at an Aadhaar Seva Kendra or bank enrolment centre to update with biometrics.
How to Update Address in Aadhaar Online
- Tap Update Address in the new Aadhaar app.
- Choose to update using a proof of address document or through the Head of Family (HoF) method.
- Enter your new address carefully, including PIN code.
- Upload a clear photo or PDF of a valid document, such as a passport, bank passbook, electricity bill or rent agreement.
- Submit and track using the URN.
The HoF option is useful for family members who do not have an address proof in their own name. The head of the family approves the request from their own Aadhaar.
How to Lock Aadhaar Biometrics
Locking your biometrics stops anyone from using your fingerprints for Aadhaar-based payments or authentication without your consent.
- Open the app and go to Biometric Lock.
- Tap Lock and confirm with face authentication or PIN.
- When you need to use your fingerprint at a bank or ration shop, unlock it temporarily from the same screen.
Fees and Free Update Deadlines
| Service | Fee | Valid Till |
|---|---|---|
| Email update via Aadhaar app | Free (normally ₹75) | December 31, 2026 |
| Online document update | Free | June 14, 2027 |
| Mobile and address updates | As shown in app before payment | – |
| Biometric lock / unlock | Free | Always |
| e-Aadhaar download | Free | Always |
How to Track Your Aadhaar Update Status
- Open the new Aadhaar app and go to Update Request Status or My Requests.
- Select the request or enter your Update Request Number (URN).
- The status will show as Received, In Progress, Completed or Rejected.
- If rejected, read the reason, correct the document or details, and submit a fresh request.
You can also check the status on the myAadhaar portal at myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in using your Aadhaar number and OTP.
6 Common Mistakes That Get Updates Rejected
- Uploading a blurred, cropped or dark photo of the document.
- Using a document that does not show your full name exactly as in Aadhaar.
- Entering an address that does not match the uploaded proof.
- Uploading an expired document, such as an old rent agreement.
- Submitting multiple requests for the same update before the first is complete.
- Using an unofficial app or a third-party agent who charges extra fees.
Aadhaar Safety Tips Every User Should Follow
The new Aadhaar app makes it easier to protect your identity. Follow these habits:
- Share Aadhaar through the QR code or a masked Aadhaar instead of a full photocopy wherever possible.
- Keep biometrics locked when you are not using fingerprint authentication.
- Check your authentication history in the app every month for any unknown activity.
- Never share the OTP sent by UIDAI with anyone, including people claiming to be from a bank or government office.
- Report misuse by calling UIDAI’s helpline 1947.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the new Aadhaar app free to use?
Yes. Downloading and using the new Aadhaar app is free. Email updates are free until December 31, 2026, while some other updates may carry a small fee.
Is mAadhaar still working?
The new Aadhaar app replaces mAadhaar with better privacy features. UIDAI recommends using the new app.
Can I update my name or date of birth through the app?
Name and date of birth changes usually need biometric verification at an Aadhaar centre. Check the app for any new options added later.
How long does an address update take?
Most online address updates are processed within a few days, though UIDAI allows up to 30 days.
How many family members can I add?
You can manage up to five Aadhaar profiles on a single device.
Final Thoughts
The new Aadhaar app makes simple updates quick and paper-free. Add your email for free before December 31, 2026, lock your biometrics for extra safety, and use QR sharing instead of photocopies. Need a durable physical card too? Read our guide to ordering an Aadhaar PVC card online.
