• By Vikas Yadav
  • Mon, 19 Jun 2023 03:45 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

JE Technology Desk: Chinese smartphone maker Realme recently grabbed eyeballs for the 'Enhanced Intelligent Services' toggle in the settings app that was turned on by default and collected user data. After a Twitter user (Rishi Bagree) pointed this out, IT minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar took charge to inform that the allegations would be investigated by the concerned authorities, the Ministry of Electronics and IT in this case.

Days after the matter was flagged, Realme and OnePlus, shared a statement with Financial Express to clarify their stand. According to the sources cited in the report, Realme could roll out a software update that will alter the default choice to 'off' mode. Users can turn it on from the settings depending on their needs.

Also Read: How To Turn Off 'Enhanced Intelligent Services' On Realme, OnePlus, OPPO Mobiles; Step-By-Step Guide

While iterating the privacy and security commitments of the brand, Realme said that the 'Enhanced Intelligent Services' option is used to optimise battery life and performance. But contrary to what the description of the feature states, "we do not collect any data on SMS, phone calls, schedules, etc," Realme said.

In another statement, OnePlus shared with FE that the data collected and processed via the feature is "encrypted and stored in encrypted hardware" within a OnePlus device. The brand also said the data is not shared with external actors or uploaded on a cloud service.

As per sources cited in the report, both companies will likely reframe the description of 'Enhanced Intelligent Services' to let users make an informed choice.

Realme adds it adheres to the "local laws and regulations" and respects the privacy of users. OnePlus also iterated in a similar tone.

Here's What Happened?

The controversy was centred around the 'Enhanced Intelligent Services' option inside the latest OnePlus, Realme and OPPO phones that collects user data, including call logs, messages, location and more. The toggle is active by default.

Also Read: 'Will Investigate It,' Says IT Minister On Realme's Contentious Data Collection Feature

The feature can be accessed from the settings app inside the System services menu. For context, Realme, OnePlus and OPPO are part of BBK Electronics, a Chinese multinational conglomerate.