Realme Takes Action: Disables Controversial Enhanced Intelligent Services with New Software Update

Realme, a smartphone manufacturer, has released a software update to disable the controversial enhanced intelligent services feature on certain models. The Realme 11 Pro and Realme 11 Pro+ are among the devices receiving this update, which automatically disables the service without any action required from users.

The software update not only disables the enhanced intelligent services but also modifies the description, removing references to the collection of call logs and SMS messages. Here is a summary of the events leading to Realme’s decision to disable the feature on its smartphones:

1. A YouTuber’s video raises concerns: A YouTuber named TrakinTech created a video highlighting how enhanced intelligent services were enabled by default on Realme smartphones. The video emphasized the collection of personal information to enhance user experience.
2. Viral screenshot on Twitter: A Twitter user named Rishi Bagree shared a screenshot from the video, which caught the attention of Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar.
3. Union Minister intervenes: Union Minister of Electronics and Technology, Government of India, raised the issue with the Ministry of Electronics and IT, urging an investigation into the matter.
4. Other brands implicated: It was later revealed that Oppo and OnePlus smartphones also had the enhanced intelligent services enabled by default.
5. Official statement from Realme: Realme issued a statement clarifying that all data processed in the service is encrypted and stored within the user’s device, complying with Android security mechanisms. The statement emphasized that no data related to SMS, phone calls, or schedules is connected contrary to the existing description.
6. Pushing a software update: In response to the concerns raised, Realme is now rolling out a software update across various models to disable the enhanced intelligent services feature.

By addressing the controversy and disabling the feature through a software update, Realme aims to address user concerns and ensure transparency regarding data privacy on their smartphones.