North Korea reportedly launched its own smartphone, which will run government approved applications only. Dubbed as North Korea's own iPhone, the device is incapable of connecting to foreign internet. Called as Pyongyang 2425, the handset is capable of accessing state-run 'Mirae' Wi-Fi - an internet network that the users to access only government approved apps. This Chinese smartphone, adjudged from the serial number, gets an octa-core chipset, facial recognition and wireless charging. Apple iPhone 11 Max Images Leaked Online Revealing Triple Rear Camera & Narrow Display Notch: View Pics.

The handset is not only capable of blocking foreign internet but also block users from opening pictures and ringtones offered as standard on the device. As per the experts, the handsets were reportedly imported as finished product prior North Korean software was installed.

One expert mentioned to Daily NK that, "North Korea could have ordered the production of the phones with the mutual understanding that they would replace the software". Here further stated that, "While changing the software can lead to some problems in functionality, regardless of the type of hardware used, North Korea could have changed the phone's software after importing it."

The report also highlighted that the images revealed by the state clearly indicates that the device runs app for learning Chinese and English, a government-approved encyclopedia and a weather app. It also gets a library app that gives access to the users for the approved reading material.

Moreover, the users won't be able to download apps due to lack of internet in the state and the users would have to visit stores where technician will install required apps for them. The country has been making smartphones for around 5 years now through domestically produced brands like Arirang, Pyongyang and Jindallae. As smartphones are designed to make life more convenient, the Pyongyang government doesn't allow connections with the outside world.

According to a research by the North-East Asia Community ICT Forum, around 40% of North Koreans use smartphones. The devices are used for playing games, reading books, listening to music, karaoke, learning to cook, and increasing crop output.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 29, 2019 06:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).