TLDRs;
- Apple refuses India’s mandate to preload Sanchar Saathi app on devices.
- Sanchar Saathi aims to block stolen phones and reduce mobile scams.
- Apple cites privacy concerns but won’t legally challenge the government order.
- Secondary market services could use CEIR checks to prevent fraud in India.
Apple has indicated it will not comply with a new Indian government order requiring smartphone manufacturers to pre-install a state-run cyber safety app, raising potential implications for millions of users in one of the world’s largest smartphone markets.
The directive, issued by India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on November 28, 2025, mandates that all smartphones, including those from Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi, must come with the Sanchar Saathi app installed and also be distributed via software updates to existing devices within 90 days.
App Aims to Prevent Phone Misuse
The Sanchar Saathi app is intended to combat theft and misuse of mobile devices by enabling users to track and block lost or stolen phones.
Authorities say it also aims to reduce scams involving duplicate or blacklisted International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, which are common in India’s secondary device market.
While the government emphasizes security benefits, critics argue that the app could also expand surveillance on India’s roughly 730 million smartphone users.
Apple Raises Privacy Concerns
Apple has confirmed it intends to discuss potential privacy and security issues related to the mandate with Indian authorities but does not plan to challenge the order in court. Experts say the company is likely concerned that mandatory installation could compromise user privacy and expose sensitive data, which conflicts with Apple’s global stance on protecting customer information.
Opposition politicians and privacy advocates have echoed these concerns, suggesting the app could be used for broader monitoring beyond its stated purpose.
Legal Basis and Enforcement Questions
The DoT order cites the Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024, and the Telecommunications Act, 2023, as its legal foundation. Tampering with IMEI numbers is already a non-bailable offense carrying penalties of up to three years in prison and fines of up to ₹5 million.
However, public information does not clarify how authorities will enforce the pre-installation directive or what penalties may apply to non-compliant firms. Questions remain over whether the DoT can impose fines, halt sales, or restrict imports for companies that resist the mandate.
Secondary Market Opportunities
India’s robust second-hand smartphone market faces persistent risks from duplicate or blacklisted IMEIs. Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) resources, integrated with Sanchar Saathi, allow buyers to verify device status before purchase.
Third-party platforms, mobile device management providers, and insurers may benefit from automated IMEI checks to reduce fraud and enhance security for refurbished phones. These services could gain a competitive advantage if API access from the DoT is confirmed, providing real-time verification for buyers and service providers.
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