COAI Raises Concerns Over Prasar Bharati’s Direct-to-Mobile Technology Tests

The Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI), a prominent telecom industry body, has voiced significant concerns regarding recent tests of direct-to-mobile (D2M) technology conducted by Prasar Bharati, India’s public broadcaster. These tests, aimed at delivering broadcast content directly to mobile devices without relying on traditional cellular networks, were reportedly carried out without the involvement or consultation of key stakeholders such as telecom operators and device manufacturers. COAI’s objections highlight critical issues related to transparency, collaboration, and potential technical interference.

Direct-to-mobile technology represents a shift in how broadcast content can be delivered, potentially bypassing the conventional cellular infrastructure. While this innovation promises benefits such as wider reach and efficient content distribution, it also raises complex challenges, especially concerning spectrum management. Spectrum bands used for D2M services may overlap or interfere with those allocated for 5G networks, which are vital for India’s digital growth and connectivity ambitions. COAI’s concerns underscore the risk that uncoordinated deployment of D2M technology could disrupt existing telecom services and degrade network performance.

The absence of telecom operators and device companies in the testing process is a central point of contention. These stakeholders possess critical expertise and operational insights necessary to assess the impact of new technologies on network integrity and user experience. COAI argues that the lack of their participation not only undermines the credibility of the tests but also limits the ability to identify and mitigate potential technical conflicts. Moreover, the process reportedly lacked transparency, with limited information shared publicly or with industry participants, raising questions about regulatory compliance and procedural fairness.

In response, COAI has called for the evaluation of Prasar Bharati’s D2M technology to be re-conducted with full stakeholder engagement. This includes telecom operators, device manufacturers, and regulatory authorities working collaboratively to ensure that the technology’s deployment is both technically sound and aligned with India’s broader telecommunications ecosystem. Such a collaborative approach would help address spectrum allocation concerns, ensure compatibility with 5G services, and foster innovation without compromising existing infrastructure.

The situation reflects broader challenges in integrating emerging broadcast technologies within established telecom frameworks. As India accelerates its 5G rollout and digital transformation, managing spectrum resources efficiently becomes increasingly critical. The COAI-Prasar Bharati episode highlights the importance of inclusive dialogue and coordinated testing protocols to balance innovation with operational stability. Ensuring that new technologies complement rather than conflict with existing services is essential for maintaining consumer trust and advancing India’s connectivity goals.

In summary, COAI’s intervention serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in deploying novel broadcast technologies like direct-to-mobile. Transparent processes, stakeholder collaboration, and careful spectrum management are vital to harness the benefits of such innovations while safeguarding the integrity of India’s telecom networks. Moving forward, a cooperative framework involving all relevant parties will be key to successfully integrating D2M technology into the country’s digital landscape.