The Indian government is considering a proposal to compel mobile phone manufacturers to disclose their devices’ upload and download speed capacities to users, according to top sources. This move aims to ensure that consumers are well-informed when purchasing smartphones, laptops, and tablets, as internet speed quality depends on both the device and the network.
The Telecom Engineering Centre (TEC) under the Department of Telecommunications is handling the matter, with stakeholder consultations expected before any final directions are issued. The proposal aims to include handset data speeds as performance indicators, aligning with international standards like 3GPP.
Government officials clarified that they only require a manufacturer declaration and that the companies’ costs would not increase significantly. However, experts suggest potential increased costs due to testing certification requirements. The move is seen as beneficial for consumers, allowing them to make informed choices, especially for advanced users interested in data speed details. Compliance is emphasized as the main aspect when finalizing the directive.