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Apple has no plans to follow the government’s directive to preload its smartphones with a mandatory government-run cybersecurity app, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The company intends to communicate its concerns to authorities in New Delhi.
This move by the Indian government has raised alarm regarding surveillance and privacy. India recently ordered companies like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi to install the Sanchar Saathi app—short for Communication Partner—on their devices within 90 days. The app’s purpose is to help locate stolen devices, disable them, and prevent misuse.
Authorities also require manufacturers to ensure this app remains active and not disabled. For devices already in distribution, they must be updated with the app via software updates, as first reported by Reuters. The Indian telecom ministry later confirmed the order, calling it a cybersecurity measure to combat serious threats. However, opposition politicians and privacy advocates argue it could give the government unwarranted access to over 730 million smartphones.
In response to criticism, Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya M Scindia described the app as a “voluntary and democratic system,” asserting that users can activate or delete it at will. Currently, the app can be removed by users, but the directive states that manufacturers must preload it and keep its functionalities enabled—details that remain confidential.
Sources say Apple refuses to comply, citing privacy and security concerns, particularly because similar mandates pose risks within its iOS ecosystem. One industry insider likened the order to “a double-barreled gun,” emphasizing its severity. Both Apple and the telecom ministry have declined to comment.
India’s crackdown on cybercrime aligns with global efforts, including recent measures in Russia, aimed at restricting stolen phone usage and promoting government apps.
The order triggered a political uproar, with opposition lawmakers condemning it as a form of government surveillance. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi intended to raise concerns about it in Parliament. The party has demanded its rescinding, with KC Venugopal stating, “Big Brother cannot watch us.” The government defended the move, citing aims to prevent scams involving counterfeit or stolen IMEI numbers and to regulate the country’s booming used-phone market.
While Apple tightly manages its App Store and proprietary iOS, encouraging strict control over its ecosystem, Android devices like Samsung and Xiaomi enjoy more flexibility due to their open-source nature. One industry source explained that Apple prefers not to challenge the order in court publicly but plans to inform the government that security vulnerabilities prevent it from adhering to the directive.
This stance coincides with ongoing legal disputes, including a significant antitrust case potentially exposing Apple to a $38 billion fine in India. Several brands, including Samsung, are currently reviewing the order, although the government reportedly advanced it without prior industry consultation.
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