India’s Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has launched a new Aadhaar mobile application aimed at strengthening digital privacy while simplifying identity verification. According to the IT Secretary, the app allows users to verify age without sharing full personal details, marking a significant step toward data minimisation in digital services.

Age Verification Without Data Oversharing

One of the app’s most notable features is its selective disclosure mechanism, which enables users to confirm whether they are above or below a required age threshold—such as 18 or 21—without revealing their date of birth or Aadhaar number. Officials say this approach reduces unnecessary data exposure, especially for services like hotels, online platforms, and retail purchases.

Built on Secure Digital Identity Framework

The new Aadhaar app leverages QR-based and consent-driven authentication, ensuring that identity details are shared only after explicit user approval. UIDAI officials highlighted that the app aligns with India’s broader push toward privacy-by-design digital infrastructure, reinforcing trust in government-backed identity systems.

IT Secretary Emphasises User Control and Privacy

The IT Secretary noted that the app puts control back into the hands of citizens, allowing them to decide what information is shared and with whom. This is expected to address long-standing concerns around excessive data collection and misuse of personal identity information.

Potential Impact on Digital Services and Compliance

Industry experts believe the app could streamline KYC and age-gated compliance across sectors such as fintech, travel, telecom, and e-commerce. By limiting data sharing to only what is necessary, the app may also help businesses comply more easily with emerging data protection norms.

Gradual Rollout and Future Enhancements

UIDAI confirmed that the app will be rolled out in phases, with plans to introduce additional features such as offline verification, expanded attribute sharing controls, and deeper integration with public and private digital platforms.