Apple plans to resist a directive to preload its smartphones with a government cyber safety app and will express its concerns to New Delhi, according to three sources familiar with the situation. This follows the government’s order, which has raised surveillance concerns.
The Indian government has discreetly instructed companies like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi to install an app called Sanchar Saathi, or Communication Partner, on their phones within 90 days. The app aims to track stolen phones, block them, and prevent misuse.
Manufacturers are also expected to ensure the app isn’t disabled. For devices already in circulation, companies should distribute the app via software updates, as first reported by Reuters on Monday.
The telecom ministry later confirmed this measure as a security step to address “serious cyber security threats.” However, critics, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political opponents and privacy advocates, argue it’s a way for the government to access India’s 730 million smartphones.
Apple intends to reject the order, stating it doesn’t comply with such mandates globally due to privacy and security concerns related to its iOS ecosystem, said two industry sources familiar with Apple’s stance. They requested anonymity due to the private nature of the company’s strategy.
“It’s not just a blunt instrument, it’s like using a double-barrel gun,” said the first source.
Both Apple and the telecom ministry have not commented on the matter.
‘Big brother cannot watch us’
This app order coincides with Apple’s legal battle against an Indian antitrust penalty. Apple faces a potential $38 billion fine in this case.
The second source mentioned Apple won’t go to court or make a public statement but will inform the government it can’t comply due to security vulnerabilities.
Apple “can’t do this. Period,” the individual stated.
Other companies like Samsung are reviewing the order, according to a fourth industry source. Samsung has not responded to Reuters’ inquiries.
Sources indicate the government proceeded without consulting the industry.
While Apple closely manages its App Store and iOS software, which are vital to its $100-billion-per-year services business, Google’s Android is open-source, allowing more flexibility for manufacturers like Samsung and Xiaomi.
India’s main opposition Congress Party has called for the mandate’s reversal. On X, Congress leader KC Venugopal stated, “Big Brother cannot watch us.”
The government’s release claims the app can address issues like duplicated or spoofed IMEI numbers, which facilitate scams and network abuse.
“India has a large second-hand mobile device market,” the telecom ministry said in a statement on Monday. “There have been instances of stolen or blacklisted devices being resold.”
