Aadhaar App on Every Smartphone? Govt Push Faces Resistance from Tech Giants

According to a report by India.com, the Indian government is considering a proposal to make the Aadhaar app a default, pre-installed feature on all new smartphones sold in the country. The move aims to improve accessibility and streamline digital identity services for millions of users.

The proposal was reportedly initiated earlier this year when the Unique Identification Authority of India approached the IT Ministry with a request to push smartphone manufacturers to include the Aadhaar app by default. If implemented, the app would come preloaded on devices, similar to essential applications like the clock or calculator.

However, major smart phone companies including Apple, Samsung, and Google have reportedly pushed back against the idea. The opposition largely stems from concerns over user privacy, data security, and potential risks associated with handling sensitive biometric information.

Industry body Manufacturers’ Association for Information Technology has also raised objections, highlighting logistical challenges. According to reports, pre-installing the Aadhaar app could require separate production lines for devices meant specifically for the Indian market, leading to increased costs and operational complexities.

The resistance follows a similar pushback seen in 2025 over the proposed pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app, which also faced criticism from the tech industry.

From the government’s perspective, the move is intended to enhance convenience. The Aadhaar app, launched earlier this year, allows users to update personal details, manage family profiles, and secure their biometric data through locking features. Pre-installation would eliminate the need for users to download the app separately, ensuring wider reach and usability.

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number linked to an individual’s biometric and demographic data. With over 1.3 billion enrollments, it plays a crucial role in identity verification across banking, telecom, and various government services.

However, past concerns over data breaches and privacy risks continue to influence the debate. Critics argue that making such an app mandatory on devices could raise ethical and security questions, especially without explicit user consent.

As discussions continue between the government and industry stakeholders, the final decision is expected to balance digital accessibility with user privacy and operational feasibility.

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