There are several instances of this in the XDA Forums where users have given a detailed account of how this secretly takes place. It is said that apps download on their own even when the device is not on WiFi, costing users their mobile data cap as well. While these are certainly not big apps in terms of size, what Micromax is clearly wrong from an ethics stand point. Users further complain that even if the app is removed, it shows up randomly on its own after some time.
Installation of applications requires user's full consent along with a list of permissions among other things. But since the company is not following either protocol, this could be a major concern for users of Micromax devices.
It is said that the company uses a third party OTA check service application instead of the default Android version which is supplied directly by Google. This in itself screams of foul play as Micromax seems to be aware of what it wants to push onto the devices.
However, there's a workaround for users well versed with tweaking their devices. You can find the complete instructions at the XDA Forums (link below), which will tell you how to install an Android Debug Bridge or ADB in a way that updates cannot be forced on to the device.
This news has taken us by surprise and serves as a warning to all who rely on Micromax devices. We're hoping to get a word from Micromax regarding the entire issue and hope that the manufacturer clarifies its stand on user privacy.
In an age where user privacy is seen with utmost concern, something like this could be a major setback for Micromax. Previously, we've seen the likes of Xiaomi and Sony fall into trouble with the authorities for similar reasons.
