Realme's alleged user data collection with UI 4.0 raises concerns: Full company statement

Realme, a Chinese smartphone brand, has been accused of collecting user data through a feature called "Enhanced Intelligent Services” that comes enabled by default on their Realme UI 4.0 that is installed in most Realme smartphone models currently in the market.

Realme users were the first to raise the issue, which was later acknowledged by the Union Minister of Electronics and Technology in India.

The concern is that this feature allegedly collects device information, app usage statistics, location, calendar events, SMS messages, and missed calls statistics. The controversy is that the feature is enabled by default, without explicit permission from the user.

Realme has claimed that the feature is solely for user enhancement, intended to optimise device usage to ensure better battery life and temperature performance.

Still, they have taken note of the allegations and issued a statement clarifying that no data on SMS, phone calls, or schedules are being collected, and that all data processed in the feature is encrypted and stored on the device.

They have emphasised protecting user privacy and that the feature can be turned on or off based on the consumer's needs.

However, privacy concerns are understandable, given Realme's Chinese background and previous associations with data allegations. The government in India has taken notice of the issue, and the feature will be tested and checked.

OnePlus users, who use OxygenOS, have also raised the same concern since it merged with ColorOS and Realme UI.

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