The BRICS TimesGovernment ordered mobile companies to pre-install the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app on new phones. Reports suggest Apple will not comply with this directive.
Government Directs Companies to Install App
The Indian government recently mandated smartphone companies. They must install the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app on all new smartphones before selling them. There were also orders to push this app to older phones. This was to be done through a software update. Reuters, citing sources, now reports that Apple will oppose this decision. They have already shared their concerns with the government. What exactly is this entire matter about?
Mandate Issued by the Government
The central government issued this order to all smartphone companies. This included major players like Apple and Samsung. They were told that the ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app must be pre-installed on new phones. For devices already sold, it needed to be installed via a software update. Companies were given a 90-day deadline for this implementation. After the notice leaked, the government officially confirmed the decision. They stated it was essential for curbing cyber fraud. However, many experts and opposition parties have criticized this move.
Apple Will Not Comply, Says Report
The Reuters report indicates that Apple will not accept this decision. Apple plans to inform the government of its non-compliance. The company generally does not follow such mandates globally. It believes pre-installation threatens the privacy and security of its iOS ecosystem. Sources suggest Apple will neither go to court nor take a public stance. Yet, they will communicate to the government that the order cannot be followed due to security reasons. Apple has not yet issued any official statement on this matter. The report also mentions that other companies are currently reviewing the decision. Samsung and other brands are among those evaluating the mandate.
