NEW DELHI: Apple has signalled it will not comply with India’s confidential order to preload smartphones with a state-owned cyber safety app, sources familiar with the matter said on Tuesday.
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The government’s directive, affecting Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi, mandates installation of an app called Sanchar Saathi, or Communication Partner, within 90 days to track stolen devices and prevent misuse.
The Indian telecom ministry confirmed the move as a security measure, describing it as necessary to combat “serious endangerment” of cybersecurity. The order also requires manufacturers to ensure the app cannot be disabled, while devices already in the supply chain must receive the app through software updates.
Apple says NO. Apple does not plan to comply with India’s mandate to preload smartphones with a state-owned cyber safety Sanchar Saathi app https://t.co/nBJqPW1O3O pic.twitter.com/67uVYZqoXv
— Mohammed Zubair (@zoo_bear) December 2, 2025
Apple officials, however, said such a mandate raises serious privacy and security concerns. “Apple does not follow such directives anywhere in the world,” two industry sources told Reuters. Apple plans to raise its concerns with New Delhi but will not challenge the order publicly or in court.
The announcement triggered political backlash, with opposition lawmakers and privacy advocates warning the government’s move could act as a mass surveillance tool. Rahul Gandhi of India’s Congress Party pledged to raise the issue in Parliament, while senior Congress leader KC Venugopal said on X: “Big Brother cannot watch us.”
NEW on Sanchar Saathi app furore.
Apple does not plan to comply with India’s mandate to preload smartphones with a state-owned cyber safety app and will raise concerns with New Delhi, after the move sparked a political storm & surveillance concerns https://t.co/YoALTTHY3H pic.twitter.com/Pdr2FJXgLY
— Aditya Kalra (@adityakalra) December 2, 2025
India’s telecom ministry defended the order, citing concerns over stolen phones, blacklisted devices, and the nation’s large second-hand mobile market. Officials said the app will help tackle scams and network misuse linked to duplicated or spoofed IMEI numbers.
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Other smartphone makers, including Samsung and Xiaomi, are reportedly reviewing the directive. Apple’s refusal comes as the company faces ongoing antitrust disputes in India, including a potential fine of up to $38 billion. Sources noted the government moved forward with the order without industry consultation, intensifying tensions between Apple and New Delhi.