The iPhone 16 just launched, and Apple fans are eager to get their hands on the latest flagship. But if you’re in Indonesia, you might want to think twice before making that purchase. The country has effectively banned the sale and ownership of the new iPhone, which could land you in some legal trouble.
Over the weekend, the Indonesian government put a ban on Apple’s latest releases, including the highly anticipated iPhone 16 series and the new Apple Watch Series 10 (via Economic Times). This means Apple can no longer sell its newest products in Indonesia. According to Industry Minister Gumiwang Kartasasmita, the decision comes after Apple failed to meet its promised investment commitments in the country.
Under Indonesian law, foreign companies are required to meet a 40 percent local content requirement. To comply, Apple promised to invest 1.71 trillion rupiah in local infrastructure but has only delivered 1.48 trillion rupiah so far. Because of this shortfall, Indonesia has not issued IMEIs for the new devices.
While Apple likely works to resolve the issue, users in the country find themselves in a frustrating situation. The government declared that any iPhone 16 used in Indonesia is illegal, which prevents citizens from purchasing the phone locally.
Things are becoming more complicated for those who already own the iPhone 16. The ruling doesn’t clarify what will happen to tourists and foreign nationals who enter Indonesia with the device in hand. This uncertainty adds to the confusion for everyone involved.
