In a rather unprecedented move, Indonesia has officially banned the sale and use of the iPhone 16. According to multiple online reports, the country has cited Apple's failure to meet its investment commitments as the primary reason.
Indonesia’s Industry Minister Gumiwang Kartasasmita said “If there is an iPhone 16 that can operate in Indonesia, that means that I can say, the device is illegal. Do report it to us.”
Apple had committed to invest $109 million or 1.7 trillion rupiah for Indonesia’s infrastructure and local sourcing. However, Indonesian government says that so far, the Cupertino-based tech giant has invested only 1.48 trillion rupiah ($95 million), falling short by 230 billion rupiah ($14.75 million).
What this shortfall does is that it prevents Apple from securing the necessary International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) certification, which is required for the devices to be legally sold in Indonesia. “We, the Ministry of Industry, are yet to be able to issue permits for the iPhone 16 because there are still commitments that Apple must realise,” the minister added.
Not just iPhone 16 lineup but reports suggest that the Watch Series 10 — launched alongside iPhone 16 — is also unavailable in Indonesia.
Apple so far hasn’t commented on the matter. It remains unclear by when Indonesia plans to lift the ban on sale of iPhone 16 series.
Can tourists use iPhone 16 in Indonesia?
According to a report by Jakarta Global, tourists are allowed to bring the iPhone 16 to the country, as long as it is meant for personal use. Tourists headed to Bali or other parts of Indonesia can bring iPhone 16 but will face strict action, if they sell those units in the country.
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