India has ordered Apple and other smartphone brands to preload a government security app on every new phone. You cannot remove the app, and you cannot disable it. The directive arrives during growing concern about privacy and digital tracking across the country. Each part of the order focuses on tighter control over devices sold in India, and it reshapes how you will use your phone.
The Department of Telecommunications issued the instruction in a private order reported by Reuters. The move adds more pressure on tech companies already dealing with strict rules. It also adds tension for users who want stronger privacy protections, not weaker ones.
Government Pushes Mandatory App
The order requires all major brands to install the state-owned ‘Sanchar Saathi’ app on every phone. The telecom ministry gives companies ninety days to comply. Reuters says the directive also covers phones already in the supply chain. Manufacturers must ship software updates that install the app automatically.
Next, the government wants the app to stay on your phone permanently. You cannot delete it. And you cannot turn it off. This part raises serious privacy questions, because the app tracks devices to help recover lost and stolen phones. While the goal sounds helpful, it also ensures the government can track every device.
Indian Express reported another rule that builds on this tracking push. Encrypted messaging apps must link each user to the SIM’s unique IMSI number. That number identifies every mobile subscriber. When you combine mandatory IMSI access with a non-removable government app, you get a system that reveals the identity behind every message.
Many people use WhatsApp and other encrypted apps to protect their communication. Right now, these apps verify you with an OTP sent to your number. With the new rule, they must also read your SIM’s IMSI, which ties your account directly to your government ID. This changes how companies protect your privacy.
Privacy advocates already warn that these measures reduce trust in digital services. Apple also faces pressure. The company promotes privacy as a core feature, yet India now requires it to push a government-controlled app to existing iPhones through a software update.
Finally, the government says the changes fight cybercrime. India has seen a rise in fraud and phone-related scams, and the ministry argues this system helps track criminals. Still, the tradeoff comes at the cost of user privacy, and the debate will grow as enforcement begins.
Not good! If I had to guess, a lot of people will never update their phone again.
It may also kill iPhones and other smart phones sales in India.