The central government is developing a new technology that will allow customers to watch live TV stations on their cellphones without the need for an internet connection. It’s known as direct-to-mobile (D2M) technology and is now being tested. Apurva Chandra, Information and Broadcasting Secretary, stated at a broadcasting summit on Tuesday that it will be a home-grown technology, with trials beginning shortly in 19 locations. Last year, pilot initiatives to evaluate D2M technology were conducted in Bengaluru, Kartavya Path, and Noida.
What is D2M?
The method can provide multimedia content to consumers’ cellphones without an active internet connection. In a letter, the Ministry of Communications outlined the diverse aspects of D2M technology, including mobile-centric and seamless content delivery, hybrid broadcast, real-time and on-demand material, and interactive services. Typically, it has been used to issue emergency notifications and aid in disaster management. The authorities stated that D2M allows information to be provided directly to customers’ mobile phones without straining network resources. Mr. Chandra also stated in his talk that a transition to D2M will free up 5G networks.
What Is the Operation Process of the Technology?
The D2M technology acts in a way comparable to FM radio, where a receiver acquires the sent signal. It is also similar to direct-to-home (DTH) broadcasting, which involves a dish antenna receiving broadcast signals directly from satellites and transmitting them to a receiver, sometimes known as a set-top box. In a document titled ‘D2M Broadcast 5G Broadband Convergence Roadmap for India’, issued by IIT Kanpur in 2022, it was stated that currently available mobile devices are not D2M compatible.
