
TRAI Proposes New Rules for Smart TV Apps to Regulate Live TV Access
What Happened?
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed a framework to regulate internet-based television services, affecting how viewers access live TV on smart TVs. The recommendations, released on October 26, require device manufacturers to ensure only authorized apps are available.
Key points
- TRAI's recommendations include a central repository for authorized apps maintained by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB).
- Device manufacturers must ensure only authorized application-based linear television distribution (ALTD) apps are available.
- The proposed framework distinguishes between ALTD services and on-demand video apps.
- Application providers will need government authorization to distribute scheduled television channels over the internet.
- The recommendations do not mean the government will control all video applications on smart TVs.
Key insights
- The proposed regulations may lead to a more structured environment for internet-based television services.
- Smart TV manufacturers could face new compliance obligations affecting app availability.
- Viewers might experience changes in how they discover and install apps for live television.
Why it matters
These regulations could significantly impact how viewers access live television content through smart TVs.
Source
Business Standard
