NEW DELHI: India’s telecoms ministry has directed smartphone manufacturers to preload a government-owned cyber security app, Sanchar Saathi, on all new devices, with no option for users to delete it, according to a government order seen by Reuters. The move is expected to draw resistance from Apple and privacy advocates.
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The November 28 order requires major smartphone makers, including Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi, to ensure the app is installed on new devices within 90 days. Devices already in the supply chain are to receive the app through software updates. The directive was issued privately and not publicly disclosed.
Launched in January, Sanchar Saathi helps users report suspicious calls, verify IMEIs, block lost or stolen phones, and track fraudulent connections. Government data shows the app has helped recover over 700,000 lost devices and terminate more than 30 million fraudulent connections. Authorities cite the app as crucial for countering network misuse and scams involving duplicate or spoofed IMEIs.
India directs smartphone makers to preload Sanchar Saathi app, sparking industry concern and potential clash with Apple policies. https://t.co/mxlNvX2t8O pic.twitter.com/c6BzTw2TDq
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While Apple pre-installs its own apps, it traditionally rejects mandatory government or third-party installations. Analysts suggest Apple may negotiate a compromise, potentially nudging users to install the app rather than enforcing it. Android devices, which constitute the majority of India’s 735 million smartphones, are more directly affected by the pre-installation order.
The directive reflects India’s broader efforts to bolster telecom cyber security and combat phone-related fraud. With more than 5 million downloads to date, Sanchar Saathi allows police and regulators to track lost or counterfeit phones and prevent their circulation in the black market.
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Industry observers note that the order could spark debates over privacy, government access, and the limits of mandatory app installation on consumer devices.