The government has asked mobile companies for their source code; find out why Apple and Samsung are opposing this..

The Indian government is preparing to make major changes regarding smartphone security. Under the new proposals, mobile companies will be required to share their phone source code and software update information with the government. However, major companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google have begun objecting to these rules. The government says this step is necessary to protect users from increasing online fraud and data theft.

Why is the government introducing new smartphone rules?
Around 750 million smartphones are in use in India, and cases of online fraud and data leaks have risen sharply. In light of this, the government is preparing to implement 83 new security standards called Telecom Security Assurance Requirements. The Indian government wants to make user data more secure. These rules will prevent dangerous apps hidden in mobile phones and cyberattacks. The government says this is a necessary step for user privacy and security.

What is source code?
Source code is the actual blueprint or map of any software or app. Just as a blueprint is drawn before building a house, the computer-based instructions used to create a mobile app, or operating system (like Android or iOS) are called source code. Simply put, everything you see on your phone—like the camera app, calling, internet, and security—is the external appearance. The program that runs them all is the source code.

Why Companies Hide Source Code
Source code describes when the phone will activate the camera, which app can access what, how data will be stored, and how security will work. However, smartphone companies keep this secret. For companies like Apple, Samsung, and Google, source code is their most valuable treasure. It reveals how their systems work. If leaked, hacking could become easier and the phone easier to copy. Furthermore, the phone's security could be weakened.

Why Companies Like Apple and Samsung Are Angry
Big brands like Apple, Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi are upset by these rules. Companies say that no country has such a requirement for sharing source code. In fact, these companies fear that their private technology secrets and business models will be exposed. Industry body MAIT has informed the government that these rules are against global standards. Companies believe this could also weaken their security.

What the government wants regarding source code and software

The government wants mobile companies to submit their phone source code for testing at Indian government labs. This will help identify security vulnerabilities. Additionally, companies will be required to provide the government with prior information about every major software update and security patch. The government will also have the authority to audit these updates. Companies will also be required to remove pre-installed apps and make changes to prevent misuse of the camera or microphone.

Why the industry is protesting
MAIT and tech companies say that sharing source code poses a threat to both security and privacy. They believe that such demands are not even in countries like Europe, the United States, and Australia. Companies have also stated that constant malware scanning on phones will drain the battery faster. Furthermore, obtaining government approval for every update is not practical, as it often requires immediate patch release.

How will the new regulations affect users?
The government requires phones to store at least 12 months of system logs so that any errors can be investigated. However, companies say phones lack sufficient storage to store this much data. Implementing these regulations will improve phone security, but may impact updates and battery life. Discussions are currently underway between the government and companies, and a major decision may be made in the coming days.

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