American tech giant Apple has declined to follow the Indian government’s directive that requires the Sanchar Saathi app to be pre-installed on every new smartphone. As per a PTI report on December 2, Apple has expressed disagreement with the mandate. The company says the Sanchar Saathi app and portal allow authorities to track SIM cards, which it views as a privacy concern. Apple said it wants to hold further discussions with the government to arrive at a workable solution, adding that the order cannot be implemented in its current form. Government sees it as an anti-fraud measure The government, on the other hand, says the app will help track, block, and prevent the misuse of lost or stolen devices, ultimately helping curb cyber fraud. Officials claim that Sanchar Saathi has already helped recover more than 7 lakh lost or stolen phones. Under the order, smartphone makers such as Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Oppo, and Xiaomi have been given 90 days to comply. Users will not be able to uninstall the app, and older devices will receive it through a software update. Also read: India mandates phone makers to install government cybersecurity app
User privacy is the first priority According to Reuters, a company spokesperson stated in the report: We prioritize user privacy above all else. This directive from the government will require data sharing on iOS devices, which is against our policy. Apple argues that there is a risk of users’ personal data, such as IMEI number and call history, being leaked from the portal and the app. Apple is now planning to challenge in the Supreme Court or High Court. The company’s lawyers have written a letter to DoT, calling the order ‘unreasonable’. The head of Apple India has ordered staff in an internal meeting not to share any data. What is Apple’s policy? Also read: Apple could reclaim No.1 spot, overtaking Samsung after decade
Government has clashed over data before Apple’s growth is rapidly increasing in India India has consistently emerged as an important market for Apple. According to market tracker IDC, the company could sell 150 million iPhones in the country in 2025. This could push Apple’s market share above 10% for the first time. In the September quarter, Apple became India’s fourth-largest smartphone vendor, where the company recorded a 25% year-on-year growth with sales of approximately 5 million units. Cook has described India as a standout market in several recent analyst calls, where the company has achieved record revenue for 15 consecutive quarters. Also read: Why does govt want ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app on every phone?
What is Sanchar Saathi App and how does it work
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