BharOS is an India-based mobile OS that aims to offer control, self-operation, freedom, and flexibility to use any app as per priority and requirements to Indian users. BharOS promises to transform the security and privacy concerns of people about their smartphones. It is developed by IIT Madras.
Expert speaks
Professor V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras said in a press conference held on 19th January 2023, “This innovative system promises to revolutionise the way users think about security and privacy on their mobile devices.” He added, “IIT Madras looks forward to working closely with many more private industry, Government agencies, Strategic agencies and Telecom Service Providers to increase the usage and adoption of BharOS in our Country.”
How is it different?
Smartphones with BharOS installed would not come with pre-installed apps or default apps like Android run devices that come pre-installed with built-in apps and Google apps. Thus, BharOS-powered device users would have the freedom to install only those apps they want. This would not only help with security and privacy but also save storage space as well.
Enhanced security
BharOS gives access to apps from organization-specific PASS or Private App Store Services. A PASS offers a curated list of apps that have passed the security and privacy standards as well as been thoroughly vetted. Thus, users can install them without fearing security vulnerabilities and privacy concerns.
Trustworthy
Karthik Ayyar, Director, JandK Operations Pvt Ltd, said, “In addition, BharOS offers ‘Native Over The Air’ (NOTA) updates that can help to keep the devices secure.” He added, “NOTA updates are automatically downloaded and installed on the device, without the need for the user to manually initiate the process. This ensures that the device is always running the latest version of the operating system, which includes the latest security patches and bug fixes. With NDA, PASS, and NOTA, BharOS ensures that Indian mobile phones are trustworthy.”
Verdict
BharOS looks promising but it is yet to be ascertained what features it has to make life easier. No details or specifics are available to the general public yet. The developer should make more information available on it before it is presented to everyone. It is being released to be used by IIT Madras employees and students along with government entities. Going by the present scenario, it has a long way to go before it could compete with iOS and Android.
