Tech Desk: Ai+ has finally broken its silence regarding the escalating Ai+ Chinese links controversy, issuing a public statement that acknowledges feedback but notably sidesteps the most serious allegations. The Indian smartphone brand, founded by former Realme India CEO Madhav Sheth, has been under intense scrutiny following a viral tech investigation by YouTuber Mrwhosetheboss, which challenged its “Made in India” and privacy-first claims. This statement, while promising improvements, has done little to quell the mounting questions.

The core of the Ai+ Chinese links controversy centers on compelling findings from the investigation: pre-installed apps linked to China-based Sprocomm Technologies on test devices, hardware almost identical to existing Chinese ODM models, and legal notices aggressively sent to Indian tech creators for critical reviews. These revelations directly contradict Ai+’s marketing narrative, which had specifically highlighted Chinese data privacy risks as a selling point for its own devices, making the findings particularly damaging to its brand image.

In its measured statement, Ai+’s Head of Brand Archi Gogoi stated, “Building a new technology brand comes with immense responsibility, and we recognise that trust must be earned every single day.” While the company promised ongoing improvements and acknowledged “observations and feedback shared by the Tech community,” it conspicuously offered no direct rebuttal to the specific claims of Chinese-linked software, rebranded hardware, or the legal actions taken against YouTubers.

Ai+ emphasized its commitment to “continuously learning and evolving,” citing “several improvements across our software, user experience, governance measures, and operational processes” over the past few months. Yet, without directly addressing the root of the Ai+ Chinese links controversy, the statement leaves many critical questions unanswered. This strategic ambiguity ensures continued public and media scrutiny over its manufacturing origins, data practices, and the integrity of its “expertly engineered and meticulously built in India” promise. The brand’s journey to rebuild trust clearly has a long way to go.