New Delhi: In a move aimed at improving caller transparency and reducing spam, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has announced the rollout of a new feature called Calling Name Presentation (CNAP), which will display the verified name of incoming callers directly on mobile screens.
This upcoming system will eliminate the need for third-party caller identification apps, such as Truecaller, by offering a built-in mechanism within the telecom network itself.
How CNAP Will Work
Under the CNAP system, when a call is received, the caller’s name—verified during SIM registration—will appear on the recipient’s screen. The telecom service provider (TSP) will maintain a CNAM database linking phone numbers to registered subscriber names. When a call request reaches the recipient’s network, the system will fetch the caller’s identity before the phone starts ringing, allowing users to identify who is calling before answering.
Enabled by Default, With Opt-Out Option
According to TRAI, the CNAP feature will be activated by default for all mobile users across India. However, subscribers who prefer not to use the feature can request their service provider to disable it. The feature will be integrated into regular telecom services and will not be offered separately.
Difference from Existing Caller ID Systems
Currently, Indian telecom networks only display a phone number using the Calling Line Identification (CLI) system, without any requirement to show the caller’s name. CNAP will change that by displaying verified identity details — a move expected to drastically improve transparency and help curb fraudulent or spam calls.
Trials and Technical Challenges
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has already conducted pilot trials of CNAP with major telecom operators in select cities. While the feature was originally planned for both circuit-switched (2G/3G) and packet-switched (4G/5G) networks, initial testing was restricted to modern packet-switched systems due to software limitations.
Enhancing Safety in Digital Communication
Officials said the CNAP rollout will help users make informed decisions when receiving calls and minimize exposure to scams, spoofing, and telemarketing fraud. By relying on verified subscriber data, TRAI aims to establish a more secure and transparent communication ecosystem and reduce dependency on third-party apps for identity verification.
With implementation expected soon, the CNAP initiative marks a significant technological shift in India’s telecom framework — one that prioritizes user safety, authenticity, and digital trust.
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