Indonesia has announced a complete ban on the selling and use of the latest iPhone 16 series in the country after Apple allegedly failed to deliver its commitments.
According to Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, any iPhone 16 models found in the hands of any individual will be deemed illegal. He also warned people who are thinking of purchasing the device abroad, emphasizing the gravity of the ban. He even urged to public to report any instances that an iPhone 16 is present in the country.
The ban is due to the iPhone 16 not having the International Mobile Equipment Identity (EMEI) certification for use in Indonesia. It is said that the Ministry of Industry wasn’t able to issue the said permits because Apple is yet to fulfill its obligations to the country.
Apparently, Apple promised to invest IDR1.71 trillion (~Php6.3 billion) in the country but only managed to deliver IDR1.48 trillion (~Php5.5 billion). It is said that Apple CEO Tim Cook met with President Joko Widodo in Jakarta to discuss potentially creating a manufacturing plant in the country.
Travelers who are planning to visit Indonesia are being cautioned about the ban and is advised to bring a secondary phone.
Via: The Verge