Realme UI 4.0 feature reportedly collects personal user data, company responds

Realme UI 4.0 data collection allegation 

A Twitter user raised this issue pointing out that this feature called ‘Enhanced Intelligent Services’ on Realme smartphones that is turned on by default. This feature essentially aims to improve user experience by “optimising device functions based on how you use your device.” But like any other similar feature this would require analysing a the usage pattern and preferences. 

The feature description clearly states that it needs to collect your “device information, app usage statistics, location information, calendar events, and statistics about unread SMS messages and missed calls.” It also needs permissions for all the information above by accessing your location information, connecting to the internet, and reading your calendar events, SMS messages, and call logs.

According to the user, this feature is turned on by default without the user’s knowledge. To get access to such data and information, permissions would need to be granted by the user but we’re not sure if this was done or not. The same was shared by OnePlus users as well since OxygenOS merged with Realme UI as a result of the two brands co-partnership. 

Rajeev Chandrashekar, Union Minister of Electronics and Technology, shared the tweet saying that the government will have this tested and checked. 

Realme responds

“realme attaches great importance to the privacy and security of our consumers and we are committed to maintaining the confidentiality of data security. Specific to the issue raised, we would like to clarify that the enhanced intelligent services feature is linked to optimising device usage to ensure that consumers get better battery life and temperature performance. However, contrary to the current description, we do not connect any data on SMS, phone calls, schedules, etc.

All data processed in this service is encrypted and stored in encrypted hardware within user’s device strictly in compliance with Android security mechanisms. This data is completely stored within the device and is not shared anywhere else or uploaded on the cloud. We place great emphasis on user privacy protection, the enhanced intelligent services feature can be manually turned on or off basis the needs of the consumers.”
– Realme to 91mobiles

According to the statement provided by Realme, it is clear that the process is only for user enhancement, and that any data collected is stored on the device. However, the concerns are also understandable since the smartphone brand is from China and there have been serious data allegations associated in the past, and continue to do so.