India on Wednesday withdrew a mandate requiring smartphone makers to preload a state-owned cyber safety app called Sanchar Saathi on all new devices following an outcry over fears of government snooping in the world's most populous nation.

The government has withdrawn its directive mandating all smartphone makers to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi app from March 2026. The reversal comes after widespread criticism over privacy and surveillance concerns.

Cybersecurity experts explain what Sanchar Saathi can and cannot solve as India expands the app to all smartphones, raising questions about fraud prevention and privacy.

The Sanchar Saathi app lets users check all mobile numbers linked to their name and block any fraud-related SIMs.

Explore the implications of India's Sanchar Saathi app mandate on smartphones, covering functionality, concerns, and industry reactions.

Apple is reportedly pushing back against India's mandate to pre-install the Sanchar Saathi cyber safety app on iPhones, citing privacy and security co

India’s move to mandate the Sanchar Saathi app on new devices has raised questions at Apple. The tech giant is considering delaying or challenging the requireme

The mobile application for the Sanchar Saathi was launched earlier this year as part of the government's efforts to combat cybercrime.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has mandated pre-installation of Sanchar Saathi application on all mobile handsets manufactured or imported for use in India.

While the government has scrapped an order making it mandatory for smartphone makers to preload a cyber-safety app, Sanchar Saathi, concerns were raised in the Rajya Sabha.