India Proposes New Smartphone Security Standards, Faces Opposition from Tech Giants
January 11, 2026
Given the excerpt, a detailed summary isn’t possible without additional substantive content.
The drafting process and discussions are taking place in early January, with a meeting scheduled to continue the dialogue.
While talks have occurred, operators say the draft’s safeguards, workflows, and timelines are still unclear, and there’s no certainty about final binding regulation.
Whether the proposal moves forward will depend on upcoming discussions and how concerns about feasibility and international precedent are addressed.
India is drafting an 83-point set of smartphone security standards that would require manufacturers to disclose source code to government labs, enable on-device malware scanning, extend log retention, tighten background access controls, and regulate updates and rollbacks.
Major players like Apple and Samsung oppose the measures, arguing they could reveal proprietary information and set global precedents that are not seen elsewhere; other firms and industry groups are also weighing in.
A key proposal would restrict background permissions, barring apps from accessing cameras, microphones, or location while the device is idle, and would require continuous status-bar notifications for active permissions, though critics say there’s no global precedent and testing standards are unclear.
Officials have held several rounds of meetings with device makers and industry groups and plan more discussions to address concerns while expanding domestic testing capacity.
An IT Secretary official says concerns will be addressed with an open mind, and that it is premature to draw conclusions amid ongoing discussions.
Notes about HyperOS and downloader links are considered ancillary promotional content and not central to the regulatory debate.
India’s IT Ministry emphasizes ongoing consultations with tech companies and signals a possible legal framework for the standards, aiming for transparent engagement with industry.
Government officials stress continued industry engagement and say they cannot comment further until discussions progress.
Summary based on 25 sources
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Sources

Economic Times • Jan 11, 2026
India proposes forcing smartphone makers to give source code in security overhaul
Economic Times • Jan 11, 2026
India's proposed smartphone security rules that are worrying tech firms
The Hindu • Jan 11, 2026
Centre proposes smartphone makers give source code in security overhaul
ST • Jan 11, 2026
India’s proposed phone security rules that are worrying tech firms