Sanchar Saathi app to come preinstalled on phones, but you can delete it anytime

A new directive from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has instructed smartphone brands to preload the Sanchar Saathi app on upcoming devices. Initial confusion emerged about whether users would be required to keep the app, but a government clarification has emerged to address the confusion. Meanwhile, Apple’s position on the matter has further set the stage for continued discussion.

What is Sanchar Saathi?

Sanchar Saathi is a government-backed platform designed to help consumers verify device authenticity, track stolen phones, report suspected telecom fraud, and review active mobile numbers linked to their identity.

The app is available on Android, iOS, and through a web portal, making its tools accessible to both new and existing users. Readers can visit this post to learn more in detail about Sanchar Saathi.

Why the government suggests having it preinstalled on phones

According to the government, the app helps strengthen telecom cybersecurity. Officials say widespread availability allows users to quickly check for tampered IMEIs, flag fraud attempts, and report missing devices.

The Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia recently said that concerns around privacy and call monitoring are based on misconceptions, adding that the platform has already contributed to tracing a large number of fraudulent connections and stolen devices nationwide.

What’s the government’s direction to mobile manufacturers and importers

Under the DoT’s directive, all phones manufactured or imported for India must ship with Sanchaar Saathi visible and functional during the initial setup process. The order also asks companies to deliver the app to older devices through software updates.

Brands have been given 90 days to implement the requirement and 120 days to file compliance reports.

Confusion and govt’s clarification

Questions arose after reports suggested device makers must ensure the app cannot be disabled or removed. The Communications Minister has addressed this directly, stating that Sanchar Saathi is completely optional and functions like any other application on a phone.

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The minister added that users are free to activate, deactivate, or delete it at any time. He also dismissed privacy concerns as misconceptions, highlighting the app’s role in helping trace fraudulent mobile connections and stolen devices.

Are smartphone brands ready to comply?

Android manufacturers have not publicly commented. However, a Reuters report states that Apple is expected to challenge the requirement privately, citing security risks for its tightly controlled iOS ecosystem. According to the report, Apple plans to inform the government that it does not follow similar mandates in global markets and cannot adopt the directive without compromising platform integrity.

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Is it a good move to have the Sanchar Saathi app preinstalled on all phones? Let us know your opinions in the comments below.