Core Viewpoint - The Indian Ministry of Telecommunications has mandated smartphone manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, Vivo, Xiaomi, and OPPO, to pre-install a government-developed cybersecurity app called "Sanchar Saathi" on all new devices sold in India, which cannot be uninstalled by users [1][3]. Group 1: Government Mandate - The Indian government issued a directive on November 28, requiring smartphone companies to pre-install the "Sanchar Saathi" app within 90 days on all new devices sold in the Indian market [1]. - Existing devices must receive the app through software updates as per the government's instructions [1]. Group 2: App Functionality - "Sanchar Saathi," launched in January 2025, aims to help users block and track lost or stolen smartphones and identify fraudulent mobile connections [3]. - The app has reportedly assisted in recovering over 700,000 lost phones since its launch, with 50,000 recoveries occurring in October alone [3]. Group 3: Industry Response - Concerns have been raised regarding user consent and potential government surveillance, with critics arguing that the mandate infringes on user rights [3]. - Apple’s response to the mandate is uncertain, as the company traditionally resists pre-installing government or third-party apps on its devices [4]. - Counterpoint Research reported a 5% year-over-year increase in smartphone shipments in India for Q3 2025, with sales revenue up 18%, marking a historical high [4].
涉苹果、三星等,印度电信部要求手机制造商预装官方APP引争议