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June 2025

June 2025

🚀 Release Notes: Introducing PersonalID – Biometric Login for CommCare

Release Date: June 2025

Audience: CommCare Connect users

External documentation: https://dimagi.atlassian.net/wiki/x/B4BYuw

 

 

🔐 What is PersonalID?

PersonalID is a new secure login method for CommCare mobile users that leverages the phone’s built-in biometrics (like fingerprints) to provide fast and secure access to all CommCare apps on a device—no password typing required.

With PersonalID, users can log into multiple project spaces using a single, universal ID tied to their personal phone number.

 

 

🌟 Key Benefits

  • Streamlined Access: Log in faster using fingerprint—no need to remember or enter passwords.

  • Cross-App Authentication: One PersonalID grants access across all CommCare applications on the device.

  • Device-Based Security: Biometric data is never stored or collected by CommCare—authentication happens using native phone tools.

  • Offline Access: Once set up, PersonalID can be used without internet connectivity.

 

 

👤 Who Should Use It?

This feature is currently in limited release for select CommCare Connect projects.

Dimagi does not yet recommend general use of PersonalID unless:

  • You're part of a CommCare Connect deployment, or

  • A Dimagi point of contact has advised you to use it.

A general availability (GA) rollout is expected later in 2025.

 

 

🛠️ How It Works

Setup Steps:

  1. Open CommCare Android and select “Sign up for PersonalID” from the 3-dot menu.

  2. Enter and verify your personal phone number via a One-Time Passcode (OTP).

  3. Configure your fingerprint on the device.

  4. Provide your full name, create a 6-digit Backup Code, and take a profile photo.

  5. Once complete, you'll be able to log in using your phone’s biometric prompt.

Login Experience:

  • Unlock your PersonalID using your fingerprint

  • Access CommCare apps linked to your PersonalID—no separate passwords required.

 

 

⚠️ Important Notes

  • A backup code is required to recover your PersonalID on a new device or reinstall.

  • Users must have their own phone number and device for PersonalID.

  • After 3 failed attempts to enter a backup code, the PersonalID will be locked and must be recreated.

  • Biometric authentication must be set up on the phone before PersonalID can be enabled.

 

 

📌 Known Limitations

  • Currently limited to select CommCare Connect projects.

  • Not supported for shared devices or users without personal phone numbers.

  • Cannot be used on devices that do not support biometrics.

 

 

🔜 Coming Soon

In late 2025, PersonalID will become available to all CommCare users. At that time, we’ll encourage all users with personal phones to switch to PersonalID for a faster, more secure experience.