Centre Mandates Pre-Installation of Sanchar Saathi App on All Smartphones
The Indian government has issued a directive requiring all smartphone manufacturers to pre-install the cybersecurity app Sanchar Saathi on new devices. Crucially, users will not be able to delete or disable the app. Major brands like Apple, Samsung, and Xiaomi have been given three months to comply.
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory Pre-install: All new smartphones must come with the Sanchar Saathi app, which cannot be uninstalled.
- Three-Month Deadline: Manufacturers have 90 days to implement the order.
- Expected Pushback: Apple, with its strict privacy policies, is anticipated to resist the mandate.
- App Function: The app helps report fraud, track stolen phones, and block device cloning.
Government’s Cybersecurity Push
India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has privately instructed smartphone makers to pre-install the state-owned Sanchar Saathi app. This move is part of a broader strategy to combat a surge in cybercrime and phone-related fraud. The order also mandates a software update for already-sold phones to make the app available.
The directive impacts all major players, including Apple, Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo. A senior official stated this effort aims to “strengthen cybersecurity and anti-spam measures,” aligning with recent rules like SIM binding for messaging apps.
What Does the Sanchar Saathi App Do?
Launched in January 2025, the Sanchar Saathi app has already crossed 50 lakh downloads. Its primary functions are:
- Track & Block Stolen Phones: Uses the device’s IMEI number to locate and block lost or stolen phones across India.
- Fraud Reporting: Allows users to report suspicious calls, SMS, and WhatsApp messages, particularly KYC scams.
- Aid Law Enforcement: Helps police trace devices and prevents counterfeit phones from entering the market.
- Prevent Cloning: Blocks attempts to clone mobile devices.
Officially, the app has aided in recovering over 7 lakh stolen mobile phones till October 2025.
Potential Resistance from Apple
Industry experts anticipate significant pushback, especially from Apple. The company has historically resisted government mandates to pre-install third-party apps, citing its internal privacy and user experience policies.
Tarun Pathak, Research Director at Counterpoint, noted, “Apple has historically refused such requests from governments. It’s likely to seek a middle ground: instead of a mandatory pre-install, they might negotiate and ask for an option to nudge users towards installing the app.”
This sets the stage for potential negotiations between the tech giant and Indian authorities in the coming months.
