India's Latest Rule: Apple and Other New Smartphones Must Have a Non-Uninstallable, State-Owned Cybersecurity App Pre-Installed
2025-12-01 / Read about 0 minute
Author:小编   

Apple had a previous run-in with India's telecommunications regulatory body regarding an anti-spam application created by the Indian government. As per a directive released on November 28, leading smartphone producers must guarantee that all newly launched smartphones are equipped with the government's 'Sanchar Saathi' app pre-installed within a 90-day window, and this app cannot be disabled by users. For devices already in the market pipeline, manufacturers are mandated to distribute the app via software updates. The app is specifically crafted to tackle cybersecurity threats in the telecommunications sector that stem from fake International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers. Its main features encompass the ability to trace and lock stolen phones, as well as to detect and terminate fraudulent network connections. This new regulation impacts companies like Apple and Samsung, with Apple possibly encountering more significant challenges in adhering to the rules.