While such a product isn’t necessarily intended for the general public (let’s face it — China’s government doesn’t have the most stellar record of upholding citizens’ privacy rights), the smartphone would be hugely beneficial for those part of the Chinese bureaucracy. The United States has thrown its fair share of accusations toward the Chinese for hacking into government and company records, and China has in turn leveled similar grievances against Americans for doing the same thing. As such, it comes as little surprise that some high ranking officials are now looking for ways to protect their information, safe guarding against prying eyes.
According to rumors of the forthcoming smartphone’s design, only the most basic of features would be included — after all, the primary purpose is security, not selling in mass quantity. Without a camera, GPS, or even extensive Bluetooth or WiFi connectivity, this almost antiquated version of a “smartphone” would make it more difficult to infiltrate, making it all the more valuable for those associated with the Chinese government. “Right now the security sector is very hot,” said Chris DeAngelis, Beijing-based general manager at consultancy Alliance Development Group. “The government is looking for non-foreign technologies as much as possible to prevent various back doors.”
Of course, turning towards domestic goods will also serve to boost the Chinese economy, whose reports of slowing growth rates has had major effects on global stock markets this year. And with more and more Chinese companies looking to buy Chinese-made goods, some foreign companies may see their own hold on the Chinese market gradually diminish. Still, the WSJ reports, China probably doesn’t have the capacity (yet) to provide all components of a smartphone from within the country.
So don’t worry, Qualcomm, it looks like you’re still safe in China … for now.
