Apple and Samsung are expected to hold discussions with the government on the recent order mandating the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on all mobile phones. According to sources, both companies will seek a middle path before implementing the directive issued by the Department of Telecom on November 28.
The DoT has directed all mobile phone manufacturers and importers to ensure that the Sanchar Saathi app, which is used to report mobile-related fraud, is pre-installed on every new device. The order also requires companies to install the app on existing phones through a software update.
Sources said Apple will speak to the government and attempt to reach an understanding. “Apple will discuss the order and work out a middle path with them. The company may not be able to implement the order in the current form,” a source said.
Under the order, every phone manufactured in India or imported after ninety days must carry the app, and all companies must report compliance within one hundred twenty days.
Samsung is also reviewing the directive and may discuss it with officials before taking any steps, the sources added.
Former BSNL chairman and Independent Director at Lava International, Anupam Shrivastava, said the mandate was a strong and appropriate step to curb mobile handset fraud and strengthen telecom cybersecurity in the country.
