TRAI calls Apple 'anti-consumer' for not allowing DND on iOS
Anyone with a cell phone knows how annoying it is to get unwanted calls/SMSes from telemarketers, spammers, and scammers! So, TRAI launched DND mobile app to reduce the menace of unsolicited calls/SMS. However, iOS users in India cannot download DND; Apple has not listed it on its app-store. TRAI is now accusing Apple of being "anti-consumer" and engaging in "data colonization". Know more!
About TRAI's Do Not Disturb mobile app
TRAI initially launched the DND initiative to block unsolicited calls/messages; users could register by texting to 1909. Bolstering its DND service, the telecom regulator launched the Do-Not-Disturb mobile app in Aug'16. The app procures information from the phone records, enabling customers to report the numbers sending such messages/calls straight from the app. The version 2.0 for the app was rolled out in Jun'17.
Apple's stand not in interest of customers: TRAI Chairman Sharma
The issue of Apple not allowing TRAI's Do-Not-Disturb (DND) app remains unresolved even after a year. TRAI Chairman RS Sharma has launched an attack on the tech-giant. Apple is facing serious charges for not allowing iOS users to pass on information regarding unsolicited calls/messages to authorities and mobile operators. However, Apple has been discussing the matter with TRAI since last year.
TRAI Chairman RS Sharma's statement
"While Google's Android supports our Do-Not-Disturb (DND) app, Apple has just been discussing, discussing, and discussing. They have not done anything. They (Apple) are anti-consumer, and they are really not caring for their customers who could have been saved from pesky calls and unwanted messages."
This is what we call data colonization: Sharma
Despite being engaged in deliberations, Apple has not allowed DND app on the iOS platform; many iOS users are reportedly exasperated. Sharma said Apple is violating users' right to willingly share their data with TRAI or other third parties of their choice. Asking Apple why customers should not be allowed to share the data they generated, Sharma added it is called "data colonization."
The ownership of the data generated by users
Sharma said another huge issue that needs to be resolved is regarding the rights over user data. Apple claims it provides the best data privacy and security. Sharma agrees that privacy and security are important, but says the question of ownership is more fundamental. Sharma stated a customer should be the one to have the last right over the data generated by him/her.
Individuals need to have control over their data: Sharma
Sharma asserted users need to have control over the data generated by them and also the freedom to share it with anyone they wish to. He stated: "It is my data. How can you take away my right over my own data?"
