Download the Aadhar application
This method relies on Face Authentication to verify your identity. This is useful if your old mobile number is lost or closed.
Requirement: You need a smartphone with a good camera and the new SIM card (the number you want to link) must be inserted in the phone you are using.
Note: If you have never linked a mobile number to your Aadhaar before (fresh link), this online method might not work for you yet, and you may still need to visit a center.
Step 1: Install the Application
Download the "Aadhar" application from the above link.
or,
Open the Google Play Store on your Android phone.
Search for the "Aadhaar" application (Look for the official app often developed by UIDAI or a related government entity, as shown in the video).
Install and open the application.
Step 2: Initial Setup
When you open the app, it will ask for various permissions (Camera, Location, etc.). Click Allow for all.
Select your preferred language if prompted.
Navigate through the welcome screens (click "Next" or "Skip") until you reach the dashboard.
Step 3: Enter Aadhaar Details
Click on the option labelled "Enter Aadhaar Number" or "Mobile Update".
Click "I am Ready with my Aadhaar".
Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar Number.
Review the Terms & Conditions, check the "I Agree" box, and click Proceed/Continue.
Step 4: SIM Verification (Crucial Step)
The app will ask you to verify the SIM card currently inside your phone.
Note: Ensure the SIM card of the NEW mobile number you want to link is in the phone and has a valid recharge plan (to send an SMS).
Select the correct SIM slot and click "Send SMS".
The system will automatically verify your mobile number.
Step 5: Face Authentication
This step replaces the need for an OTP from your old/lost number.
If your old number is not linked or not active, the app will prompt you for Face Authentication.
Click "Continue to Face Authentication".
The camera will open. Follow these rules:
Hold the phone at eye level with good lighting on your face.
Position your face inside the frame.
Blink your eyes slowly when the frame turns green to capture the image.
Once the capture is successful, your identity is verified.
Step 6: Payment
After successful face scan, you will be redirected to the payment page.
The fee is typically ₹75.
Complete the payment using UPI, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
Step 7: Download Receipt & Track
Once payment is successful, you will see a success message: "Your mobile number update request has been submitted."
Click on "Download Acknowledgement" to save the receipt PDF.
You can check the status later in the app. It will move from "Validation Stage" to "Completed" once the update is done (usually takes a few days).
If the App Fails: As mentioned in the second video, if the Face Auth fails repeatedly or if the app does not allow you to proceed because you have never linked a number before, you cannot do this online.
The Alternative: In such cases, you must book an appointment and visit the Aadhaar Seva Kendra physically.