Indian Gov. To Check If Realme UI 4.0 Collecting User Data With Pre-Activated "Enhanced Intelligent Services"

Realme launched the Realme UI 4.0, based on Android 13 last year. The update has been regularly criticized for multiple aspects. A new option that isn't easily visible, and is switched on by default, could prove to be more trouble for the brand.

Union Minister of Electronics and Technology Rajeev Chandrasekhar has taken cognizance of Realme's seemingly unethical ways of collecting user data, without consent. Let's look at the latest developments and how they might impact Realme as a brand and smartphone users in general.

MEITy Responds To User Complaints About Realme UI 4.0 Collecting User Data Without Consent

Realme UI 4.0 update, announced last year, was quite controversial as it contained a lot of pre-installed bloatware apps. Pesky ads and app recommendations, including explicit content, also found their way to smartphone users.

Realme fixed most of these issues but not completely. Moreover, the update continues to display dark patterns that might not be easily noticeable to the average consumer.

Realme has reportedly been tracking user activity and collecting data for the seemingly innocent reason of improving the user experience and optimizing device functions. After some users and YouTubers complained on social media platforms, an Indian government representative responded.

Union Minister of Electronics and Technology (MEITy) Rajeev Chandrasekhar has taken note of the growing number of complaints. He has promised that the setting, its implications, and uses, will be tested and checked.

"Enhanced Intelligent Services" In Realme UI 4.0 Allows User Data Collection Without Consent?

The Realme UI 4.0 update includes a setting that isn't easily discoverable. Called "Enhanced Intelligent Services", it is enabled by default. The description of the feature states:

"Enhanced Intelligent Services improves the user experience by optimizing device functions based on how you use your device. The feature collects the user's information, including device information, app usage statistics, location information, calendar events, etc. The component also collects statistics about unread SMS messages and missed calls.

Enhanced Intelligent Services requires access to the user's location, internet connection, calendar events, call logs, and messages."

Needless to say, the sheer amount of data being collected is deeply suspicious. Additionally, the setting is switched on by default. Hence, Realme smartphone users with Relame UI 4.0 update could unknowingly be submitting their data.

Users should turn off the feature. To do so, go to Settings > Additional Settings -> System Services and disable Enhanced Intelligent Services. Incidentally, OPPO and OnePlus smartphones also have the same feature.

In Oxygen OS 13, the feature can be disabled by going to Settings > System > Additional Settings > System Services. As an added precaution, users shouldn't casually grant apps access to location, microphone, call logs, or photos and videos.