The Aadhaar mobile app has received a significant update. UIDAI is introducing a new “Selective Share” feature aimed at improving user privacy and giving individuals greater control over the personal data they share. As digital identity verification becomes increasingly common across hotels, offices, and residential complexes, this update offers a timely solution to concerns around unnecessary data exposure.
What Exactly Is “Selective Share”?
“Selective Share” allows Aadhaar holders to choose which specific details they want to reveal during an identity verification process. Instead of sharing the full Aadhaar profile which typically includes the Aadhaar number, date of birth, address, and other sensitive information users can now share only what’s required.
For example, if a hotel only needs your name and photograph, you can limit sharing to just those fields. The app generates a secure QR code or a digital credential reflecting only the data you’ve selected. This reduces the risk of misuse and prevents organizations from collecting more information than necessary.
New Features That Enhance the Aadhaar App
The new update in the app isn’t just about selective sharing. The new Aadhaar App introduces several upgrades aimed at improving usability, convenience, and digital security.
Multiple Profile Support: Users can store up to five Aadhaar profiles on one device, making it especially useful for families who depend on a single smartphone.
Biometric and Face Authentication: After OTP verification, the app uses face recognition or device biometrics to ensure the rightful owner is accessing the profile.
Offline Access: Once set up, users can view their Aadhaar details without an internet connection ideal in areas with poor network coverage.
Activity Log: A built-in history checker lets you see where and when your Aadhaar details were used, helping monitor any suspicious activity.
Masked and QR-Based Sharing: The app allows you to generate QR codes with either full or masked information, depending on what you choose to share.
How to use and Update App?
Setting up the new Aadhaar App remains simple. After downloading it from the official Google play app store, users can enter their Aadhaar number, authenticate through OTP, and complete biometric verification. A PIN or device-based lock can then be set for added security. Families can further add additional profiles linked to the same registered mobile number.
Why This Update Matters?
The introduction of “Selective Share” changes how Aadhaar is used as a digital identity tool. By allowing users to control the visibility of their personal data, the update strengthens privacy while retaining convenience. Whether it’s for hotel check-ins, office entry, or routine verifications, users now share only what is truly needed nothing more.
In a digital world where data protection is increasingly crucial, this update is a meaningful step toward empowering users and safeguarding personal information.
