Telcos vendors up in arms over D2M trials in 19 cities

India is assessing the potential adoption of Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology on mobile handsets. The plan is to conduct trials in 19 cities nationwide using Prasar Bharti’s infrastructure to assess the technology’s effectiveness and gather user feedback before deciding on a mass-scale rollout. TEC is finalising a new draft report on the technology’s standards, having collected inputs from all stakeholders.

Telcos, chipmakers, handset players, and network vendors have opposed the move. Samsung, Qualcomm, Ericsson, and Nokia have written to the Ministry of Communications. The technology lacks an ecosystem and breaches the level playing field. D2M utilises the existing Land Mobile Radio System (LMRS), traditionally used for voice calls and alerts, to broadcast video content directly to phones. This eliminates the need for internet access, making it a valuable tool for regions with limited internet connectivity.
BCS Bureau