India is weighing a new rule that would force all smartphones to keep GPS-based location tracking active at all times. If this becomes law, users would not be able to switch the feature off.
The idea has triggered strong objections from Apple, Google, and Samsung. They say the move could put peopleโs privacy and security at risk.The push for this rule comes from Indiaโs telecom sector. Groups like the COAI, which represents Jio and Airtel, want the government to require permanent
A-GPS activation. A-GPS uses satellites and mobile networks to deliver highly accurate location details.Right now, during investigations, authorities often receive only rough location data from mobile towers. Telecom companies argue this isnโt enough for serious cases.
Always-on tracking would solve that, but it opens the door to constant monitoring of every user.Tech companies have warned the government that this approach has no global precedent.
In a confidential letter, industry groups said A-GPS was never intended to be used as a surveillance tool.The debate comes just days after the government rolled back its plan to force smartphone makers to preload the Sanchar Saathi cyber safety app, which many feared could be misused for snooping.
According to Reuters, the issue highlights a deeper clash between security needs and personal privacy. Supporters say accurate location data will help solve crimes faster. Critics say the system could easily become a tool for mass tracking.
Experts also note that no other country demands always-on device-level location access from citizens.A planned meeting between officials and smartphone companies was postponed, and discussions are still ongoing.
The final decision could reshape how much control governments have over location tracking on consumer devices worldwide.
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