Japan’s New Myna App Merges Two Services Into One on August 26

Japan’s Digital Agency launched a redesigned Myna App on August 25, 2026, consolidating two separate applications into one unified platform. The new app combines the Myna Portal (administrative counter) and the digital authentication app, eliminating the need for users to install two separate tools. As of August 16, the authentication system had processed over 10.4 million cumulative transactions across 607 active services.

What changed in the new Myna App

The Myna App now integrates administrative services and identity verification into a single application. Previously, users needed the Myna Portal App (79.41 million downloads as of July 31) and a separate digital authentication app (7.61 million downloads) to access all functions. The new app eliminates this fragmentation, allowing users to handle both administrative procedures and digital verification without multiple installations. Existing services continue to work unchanged; businesses need only update documentation, not system code.

Biometric authentication without physical cards

The update enables users to authenticate using iPhone My Number Card or Android smartphone certificates instead of carrying physical My Number Cards. Users can now verify identity through facial recognition or fingerprint scanning on their phones. The system binds biometric data to security tokens on the server rather than storing biometric information centrally, enhancing security. Device lock settings (PIN, passcode, face, or fingerprint) are now mandatory for all users.

Adoption across government and private services

As of August 20, 2026, 1,439 government and private services had applied to use digital authentication, with 607 already active. Major adopters include Tokyo’s Tokyo App, Mercari marketplace, and Pokémon Card online sales. Authentication transactions exceeded 10.4 million cumulatively by August 16. The consolidated app reduces onboarding friction for new services since users no longer require a separate download.

Android support and timeline

Apple iPhone users can immediately use My Number Card functionality on their devices. Android My Number Card support is scheduled for autumn 2026. All users must re-register with the new app after updating, though existing iPhone My Number Card and smartphone certificates are preserved. The app icon redesign reflects iPhone My Number Card aesthetics for familiarity among iOS users.

Final Thoughts

The Myna App consolidation reduces friction for Japan’s 103.8 million My Number Card holders by eliminating duplicate installations and enabling biometric authentication on smartphones. For businesses, the unified platform simplifies user guidance and service integration.

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The content shared by Meyka AI PTY LTD is solely for research and informational purposes.  Meyka is not a financial advisory service, and the information provided should not be considered investment or trading advice.