India’s government scrapped an order to smartphone makers on Wednesday to preload a state-run cybersecurity app on all new devices after an outcry from politicians, privacy advocates and global tech companies over surveillance fears.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government had privately told companies including Apple, Samsung and Xiaomi on November 28 to preload new phones with an app that cannot be deleted called Sanchar Saathi within 90 days, Reuters was first to report on Monday.
“Government has decided not to make the pre-installation mandatory for mobile manufacturers,” India’s communications ministry said in a press statement on Wednesday.
