The sale and use of Apple’s iPhone 16 are prohibited in Indonesia.
Any iPhone 16 discovered in the possession of customers will be deemed unlawful, according to Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita.
iPhone 16 Banned in Indonesia
Kartasasmita emphasized the gravity of the restriction and cautioned against buying the iPhone 16 from overseas.
The possible effects on present and prospective iPhone 16 owners traveling to Indonesia are causing anxiety among tourists.
The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) certification required for use in Indonesia is absent from the iPhone 16.
The public was urged by Kartasasmita to report any instances of iPhone 16 use in Indonesia.
Apple’s failure to fulfill its investment obligations in Indonesia is the reason for the ban. Apple has invested roughly 1.48 trillion Rupiah, which is roughly 230 billion Rupiah less than its 1.71 trillion Rupiah pledge.
Since Apple has not yet complied with these requirements, the Ministry of Industry has not granted permits for the iPhone 16. The TKDN certification, which requires 40% of a product’s content to be supplied locally, is also absent from the iPhone 16.
Apple’s commitment to setting up research and development facilities in Indonesia, called the Apple Academy, includes this certification. Due to the latest restriction, travelers who intend to visit Indonesia with an iPhone 16 should exercise caution.
The iPhone 16 is deemed unlicensed for usage in Indonesia if it does not have an IMEI certification.
What Should Travelers With iPhone 16 Do?
Travelers who plan to use their iPhone 16 while in the country are subject to the prohibition.
It is recommended that travelers bring a backup phone that is compatible with Indonesian networks or has a valid IMEI. In Indonesia, there are many other possibilities for connectivity, such as portable Wi-Fi devices and local smartphones. Those who intend to utilize the iPhone 16 should keep abreast of Apple’s adherence to regional investment regulations.
The prohibition follows Apple CEO Tim Cook’s April visit to Jakarta, when he spoke with President Joko Widodo about possible manufacturing plans. Because of Apple’s unmet local investment commitments, the prohibition remains in effect notwithstanding these conversations.
