Apple Reportedly Refuses India’s Order to Preload Sanchar Saathi App on iPhones

Apple is resisting a new Indian government mandate requiring smartphone makers to preload a state-owned cyber safety app, Sanchar Saathi, on all new devices sold in the country, according to three industry sources.

The confidential order has already triggered concerns about possible surveillance, as well as political criticism, and Apple intends to raise these objections directly with officials in New Delhi.

Apple Sanchar Saathi mandate dispute centres on privacy and security

The government has privately instructed major brands-including Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi-to integrate the Sanchar Saathi app on all smartphones within 90 days. The app is designed to help track stolen devices, block them remotely, and curb potential misuse.

Two sources familiar with Apple’s internal position said the company does not follow similar preloading mandates in any country. According to these sources, Apple believes such compulsory apps create serious privacy and security risks for the iOS ecosystem, and the company will tell the Indian government that this is why it cannot comply with the Sanchar Saathi order.

Apple Sanchar Saathi mandate also affects Samsung and other manufacturers

Sanchar Saathi is designed to help users track stolen phones, block their use on mobile networks, and reduce misuse of lost devices. A fourth industry source said other brands, including Samsung, are still examining the order and its technical impact. Samsung did not respond to questions about how the company plans to proceed.

The second source said Apple is not preparing a legal challenge and does not want a public confrontation with authorities. Instead, Apple aims to explain privately that the order cannot be followed because of what the company sees as security vulnerabilities. Apple "can't do this. Period," the person said, adding that the firm wants its detailed strategy kept confidential.

Government Clarification: Sanchar Saathi Can Be Deleted

Amid the growing debate, Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia has clarified that the Sanchar Saathi app – despite being part of the mandate – can be deleted by users.

"If you don't want Sanchar Saathi, you can delete it. It is optional," Scindia told news agency ANI on Tuesday, December 2.

The clarification appears to contrast with earlier instructions reportedly stating that the app should be non-removable, adding another layer of confusion to the rollout.

Via