The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing to launch a handy new feature for the Aadhaar app that will allow users to update their mobile numbers directly from their smartphones. Once this feature goes live, users will be able to change the mobile number linked to their Aadhaar card without the hassle of visiting the enrollment center and doing all the paperwork or standing in queues.

In a recent post on X, the governing body behind Aadhaar announced that mobile number updates will soon be possible from home using secure digital verification. The upcoming feature will rely on a combination of OTP verification and facial authentication through the Aadhaar app to confirm the identity of the user. “Coming soon! Update mobile number in Aadhaar from the comfort of your home – through OTP and face authentication,” UIDAI wrote in its official post on X (formerly Twitter).

This update will come as a major improvement over the current system, which currently makes it mandatory for anyone wishing to update their Aadhaar-linked mobile number to visit an authorized center in person due to the sensitivity of the verification process. For many people, especially senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and residents of remote or rural areas, the centre-based method has been time-consuming and inconvenient, often involving long wait times or limited appointment availability. With this new feature, UIDAI aims to reduce those challenges by shifting the entire process to the user’s smartphone, making a critical identity update far more accessible.

How will the feature work

According to UIDAI, the system will authenticate users through an OTP sent to their existing or new mobile number, followed by a facial authentication step using the built-in verification tools of the Aadhaar app. This two-step process aims to maintain a high level of security while providing a seamless and user-friendly experience. UIDAI also stressed that this upgrade removes the need for physical documentation or a visit to the centre, highlighting in its X post: “No more standing in queues at the Aadhaar centre.”

UIDAI urges users to download Aadhaar app

Although the home-update feature is not live yet, UIDAI has confirmed that it is “rolling out soon” and urged users to stay tuned for further updates. Ahead of the release, the authority is also encouraging people to pre-download the Aadhaar app, which is currently available on both Android and iOS. Once the feature is launched, users will be able to update their mobile number within the app using their Aadhaar number, new mobile number and a smartphone that supports facial authentication.