The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT) has recently developed BharOS which is set to benefit 100 crore (one billion) smartphone users across the country by offering them a more secure and private mobile operating system. While Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS continue to dominate the mobile operating system sector, which is the core interface of a smartphone, the new indigenously developed software could potentially challenge the former.&nbsp;

What is BharOS?

The Indian government-funded project, BharOS is an AOSP (Android Open Source Project) based operating system. Unlike Android, it does not have default Google apps or services, which implies that users will not be forced to opt for applications that they are unfamiliar with or do not trust.&nbsp;

Developed by the IIT-Madras incubated non-profit JandK Operations Private Limited (JandKops) the free and open-source operating system (OS) will be used in government and public systems. This was in line with the project’s aim to reduce the reliance on foreign OS in smartphones and contribute significantly to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-mumbai-expressway-everything-you-need-to-know-about-one-of-indias-largest-infrastructure-projects-555162">Delhi-Mumbai expressway: Everything you need to know about one of India’s largest infrastructure projects</a>

Is it different from Android?

In terms of technicalities, it is quite similar to the Android OS but without any Google services which let users decide which apps they wish to install on their device. In fact, it is based on AOSP therefore despite being known as an indigenous operating system it essentially has one key difference which is its No Default Apps (NDA) feature. The institute claims that it will give users more control, freedom, and flexibility to choose apps that cater to their needs.&nbsp;

Additionally, the developers have said that it is better than both Android and iOS in terms of features and security as well as could offer better battery life for the device, reported the Indian Express. Similar to Android, the BharOS also offers “Native Over The Air” (NOTA) updates which means software updates will automatically get downloaded and installed on the device.&nbsp;

Privacy and security features&nbsp;

As mentioned earlier, privacy and security were among the main focus behind creating BharOS, in addition to NDA, the mobile operating system also gives its users access to trusted apps from company-specific Private App Store Services (PASS).&nbsp;

In a statement, the developers said, “A PASS provides access to a curated list of apps that have been thoroughly vetted and have met certain security and privacy standards of organisations. This means users can be confident that the apps they are installing are safe to use and have been checked for any potential security vulnerabilities or privacy concerns.”&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-install-new-machines-at-airports-passengers-wont-have-to-remove-electronic-devices-from-bag-545378">India to install new scanners at airports; passengers won't have to remove electronic devices from bag</a>

Therefore, BharOS services are now reportedly being supplied to those users and organisations that handle sensitive information and data that require strong privacy and security requirements.&nbsp;

Can you install BharOS on your device?

Reports suggest that BharOS will be available on a range of devices including laptops, phones, as well as desktops, however, it is still being developed and its release date has not been announced yet. Furthermore, unlike Windows OS, a single build of BharOS cannot be installed on all Android phones, therefore, even after the wider roll-out might not be available for all devices. So far, it is reportedly said to be compatible with Google Pixel smartphones but there is no official confirmation by the developers.&nbsp;

BharOS: What we know so far about the current version

Notably, the current version of BharOS comes with third-party apps like DuckDuckGo and Signal as default browsers and messaging apps. Additionally, since there are no pre-installed apps and users can sideload any app of their choice which could potentially compromise the device’s security and make it vulnerable to hacking, noted a report by the Indian Express.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/microsoft-and-isro-team-up-to-support-indian-space-tech-startups-549920">Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups</a>

There is also no clarity on how a user can replace their current operating system with BharOS or if the developers will join hands with the OEM to launch the smartphone which supports the indigenously built mobile operating system. However, reports suggest that the developers are expected to collaborate with some smartphone manufacturers to launch cell phones with BharOS.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT) has recently developed BharOS which is set to benefit 100 crore (one billion) smartphone users across the country by offering them a more secure and private mobile operating system.

The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IIT) has recently developed BharOS which is set to benefit 100 crore (one billion) smartphone users across the country by offering them a more secure and private mobile operating system. While Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS continue to dominate the mobile operating system sector, which is the core interface of a smartphone, the new indigenously developed software could potentially challenge the former. What is BharOS? The Indian government-funded project, BharOS is an AOSP (Android Open Source Project) based operating system. Unlike Android, it does not have default Google apps or services, which implies that users will not be forced to opt for applications that they are unfamiliar with or do not trust. Developed by the IIT-Madras incubated non-profit JandK Operations Private Limited (JandKops) the free and open-source operating system (OS) will be used in government and public systems. This was in line with the project’s aim to reduce the reliance on foreign OS in smartphones and contribute significantly to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. ALSO READ | Delhi-Mumbai expressway: Everything you need to know about one of India’s largest infrastructure projects Is it different from Android? In terms of technicalities, it is quite similar to the Android OS but without any Google services which let users decide which apps they wish to install on their device. In fact, it is based on AOSP therefore despite being known as an indigenous operating system it essentially has one key difference which is its No Default Apps (NDA) feature. The institute claims that it will give users more control, freedom, and flexibility to choose apps that cater to their needs. Additionally, the developers have said that it is better than both Android and iOS in terms of features and security as well as could offer better battery life for the device, reported the Indian Express. Similar to Android, the BharOS also offers “Native Over The Air” (NOTA) updates which means software updates will automatically get downloaded and installed on the device. Privacy and security features As mentioned earlier, privacy and security were among the main focus behind creating BharOS, in addition to NDA, the mobile operating system also gives its users access to trusted apps from company-specific Private App Store Services (PASS). In a statement, the developers said, “A PASS provides access to a curated list of apps that have been thoroughly vetted and have met certain security and privacy standards of organisations. This means users can be confident that the apps they are installing are safe to use and have been checked for any potential security vulnerabilities or privacy concerns.” ALSO READ | India to install new scanners at airports; passengers won't have to remove electronic devices from bag Therefore, BharOS services are now reportedly being supplied to those users and organisations that handle sensitive information and data that require strong privacy and security requirements. Can you install BharOS on your device? Reports suggest that BharOS will be available on a range of devices including laptops, phones, as well as desktops, however, it is still being developed and its release date has not been announced yet. Furthermore, unlike Windows OS, a single build of BharOS cannot be installed on all Android phones, therefore, even after the wider roll-out might not be available for all devices. So far, it is reportedly said to be compatible with Google Pixel smartphones but there is no official confirmation by the developers. BharOS: What we know so far about the current version Notably, the current version of BharOS comes with third-party apps like DuckDuckGo and Signal as default browsers and messaging apps. Additionally, since there are no pre-installed apps and users can sideload any app of their choice which could potentially compromise the device’s security and make it vulnerable to hacking, noted a report by the Indian Express. ALSO READ | Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups There is also no clarity on how a user can replace their current operating system with BharOS or if the developers will join hands with the OEM to launch the smartphone which supports the indigenously built mobile operating system. However, reports suggest that the developers are expected to collaborate with some smartphone manufacturers to launch cell phones with BharOS. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: BharOS an indigenously-built operating system for smartphones in India

Internet is a wonderful place but there are many pitfalls. With net neutrality going bye-bye and several other things changing over the years, it has been important to keep yourself and your identity online safe when needed. With data of whole of our lives going digital, it doesn't hurt to guard our privacy. With trackers, cookies and whatnot, this is increasingly becoming difficult. But there's a way to keep yourself safe online. Here we recommend privacy apps that'll help you surf the net freely and securely

1. Signal (Android, iOS)

There are messaging apps galore and each one claims to be supersafe for its users. There's WhatsApp, Telegram and more.

But if you are searching for a secure messenger app that has got good endorsements, then choose Signal.

Signal protects your text, voice messages and even videos with end-t-end encryption. This bit by Signal has even found to have been useful for protesters to protect their identities.

The open-source app has got endorsements from Amnesty International, Committee to Protect Journalists, Mozilla and even US Military.

The app is free.

 
2. Tor (Android)

Not even Google Chrome's incognito mode does what you think when it comes to anonymous web browsing. But by using Tor, its possible to come closest to true anonymity on the net.

Tor browser is available free to download for your desktop.&nbsp;

Whether you want to keep your web browsing a secret for the sake of your job or safety or you don't want companies tracking you as you surf the net, Tor browser is for you. It is available for Android but currently not for iOS.

&nbsp;

3. Onion Browser (iOS)

Don't sulk if you want to surf web anonymously and can't download Tor Browser because you don't have Android phone. Onion Browser does the same trick for iOS.

Onion browsers offers three levels of protection (gold, silver and bronze)

&nbsp;&nbsp; 
4. DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser (Android,iOS)

DuckDuckGo has become quite popular in this category because of the ease of its use. It doesn't block certain of your browsing habits like Tor Browser does but offers good protection from trackers on a particular website.

It automatically blocks third-party trackers and forces websites to use encrypted (more secure) connection when available.

 
5. ProtonMail (Android,iOS)

ProtonMail lets users encrypt and later self-destruct their e-mails so they don't remain lying around in your recipient's inbox for too much time and potentially letting crawlers get the info.

ProtonMail works like Gmail but it lets users put an extra layer of security on their e-mails.

 
6. Haven (Android)

Want to stop unwanted people from sneakily checking your phone when you are not around? Haven is for you.

Haven turns your phone into a motion-sensitive camera. It can detect light, sound and vibration too.

So if someone is to break into your home when you are taking a walk. Haven will not only detect it but also send you pictures of the person.

Internet is a wonderful place but there are many pitfalls. With net neutrality going bye-bye and several other things changing over the years, it has been important to keep yourself and your identity online safe when needed.

Internet is a wonderful place but there are many pitfalls. With net neutrality going bye-bye and several other things changing over the years, it has been important to keep yourself and your identity online safe when needed. With data of whole of our lives going digital, it doesn't hurt to guard our privacy. With trackers, cookies and whatnot, this is increasingly becoming difficult. But there's a way to keep yourself safe online. Here we recommend privacy apps that'll help you surf the net freely and securely 1. Signal (Android, iOS) There are messaging apps galore and each one claims to be supersafe for its users. There's WhatsApp, Telegram and more. But if you are searching for a secure messenger app that has got good endorsements, then choose Signal. Signal protects your text, voice messages and even videos with end-t-end encryption. This bit by Signal has even found to have been useful for protesters to protect their identities. The open-source app has got endorsements from Amnesty International, Committee to Protect Journalists, Mozilla and even US Military. The app is free. 2. Tor (Android) Not even Google Chrome's incognito mode does what you think when it comes to anonymous web browsing. But by using Tor, its possible to come closest to true anonymity on the net. Tor browser is available free to download for your desktop. Whether you want to keep your web browsing a secret for the sake of your job or safety or you don't want companies tracking you as you surf the net, Tor browser is for you. It is available for Android but currently not for iOS. 3. Onion Browser (iOS) Don't sulk if you want to surf web anonymously and can't download Tor Browser because you don't have Android phone. Onion Browser does the same trick for iOS. Onion browsers offers three levels of protection (gold, silver and bronze) 4. DuckDuckGo Privacy Browser (Android,iOS) DuckDuckGo has become quite popular in this category because of the ease of its use. It doesn't block certain of your browsing habits like Tor Browser does but offers good protection from trackers on a particular website. It automatically blocks third-party trackers and forces websites to use encrypted (more secure) connection when available. 5. ProtonMail (Android,iOS) ProtonMail lets users encrypt and later self-destruct their e-mails so they don't remain lying around in your recipient's inbox for too much time and potentially letting crawlers get the info. ProtonMail works like Gmail but it lets users put an extra layer of security on their e-mails. 6. Haven (Android) Want to stop unwanted people from sneakily checking your phone when you are not around? Haven is for you. Haven turns your phone into a motion-sensitive camera. It can detect light, sound and vibration too. So if someone is to break into your home when you are taking a walk. Haven will not only detect it but also send you pictures of the person.

Privacy apps you needed to have downloaded in 2020

security-apps-for-android

Security Apps For Android, News on Security Apps For Android, stories on Security Apps For Android, articles on Security Apps For Android, Security Apps For Android stories at Wion, Security Apps For Android news, Security Apps For Android latest news

security apps-for-android

Explained: BharOS an indigenously-built operating system for smartphones in India

Privacy apps you needed to have downloaded in 2020