Govt Now Wants Sanchar Saathi App On Every Smartphone Sold In India: What It Means For Users

The Indian government has now formally told smartphone makers that the Sanchar Saathi app must come pre-installed on every phone sold in the country. The order, confirmed through a PIB press note, applies not just to new smartphones but also to older models via software updates. Companies including Apple, Samsung, Vivo, and others have been given 90 days to comply, and an additional 30 days to submit a compliance report. Also Read: Jio Makes Gemini 3 AI Free For All Unlimited 5G Users Across India: Here’s How To Claim

The mandate comes shortly after reports suggested the government is looking at stronger security measures for mobile devices, including a proposal to bring SIM binding to apps such as WhatsApp. The decision has sparked a lot of debate online, with many users worried that it could give the government more access to their personal devices. Also Read: BSNL Launches Silver Jubilee Prepaid Plan With 2.5GB Daily Data, Unlimited Calls: Check Price, Benefits

What the Government Has Directed

The instructions issued to smartphone makers are clear. Smartphone makers have been told that the Sanchar Saathi app must come pre-installed and easy to find when a user sets up their phone for the first time. The guidelines specify that the app’s core features cannot be disabled or removed. The government says the decision aims to strengthen mobile security and help curb the misuse of telecom services. Also Read: DoT launches the Sanchar Saathi app for smartphones; Here are the details

Why Sanchar Saathi Is Being Made Mandatory

According to the Department of Telecommunications, the mandate is linked to the rising cases of duplicate IMEI numbers, fraudulent mobile connections, and cyber misuse. The app is positioned as a tool that will help consumers report stolen devices, verify IMEI authenticity, and track suspicious activity linked to their mobile number.

What the App Does

Sanchar Saathi functions as a central security tool for mobile users. It lets users block a lost or stolen device across all networks, verify whether a phone is genuine, and check how many SIM cards are issued under their ID. The app also connects to the CEIR database, enabling authorities to restrict IMEIs instantly.

Government data shows the system has already blocked over 3.7 million stolen devices and recovered around 700,000 lost phones.

Concerns Around the Mandate

Despite the government’s safety pitch, users are worried about privacy. The app requests access to call logs, messages, camera functions, and network details. Critics argue that making such an app mandatory – and non-removable – could create opportunities for surveillance. Some public figures have raised concerns on social media, calling the move intrusive and unnecessary.