Prasar Bharati Set to Bring Direct-to-Mobile Technology for Internet-Free Live TV on Smartphones

Prasar Bharati is preparing to introduce Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology, which could enable users to watch live television channels on smartphones without requiring mobile data or Wi-Fi. According to reports, the public broadcaster is planning to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) in October for the commercial implementation of the technology. The project is being developed in collaboration with IIT Kanpur and Tejas Networks, with trials already conducted across more than 19 cities.

D2M technology is designed to deliver live TV and other content directly to compatible mobile devices without relying on conventional cellular networks. Research has indicated that broadcasts could operate in the 470–582 MHz spectrum band without disrupting cellular services. However, challenges remain, including the need for compatible smartphones supporting the required broadcasting standards. Telecom operators have also reportedly raised concerns that lower mobile-data consumption could affect their revenues.