In the infinite world of Technological updates and features, a new technology is being developed by Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) broadcast technology, it will allow television and multimedia content to be sent directly to mobile phones without using mobile data or cellular networks.
Instead of relying on 4G or 5G, D2M will work like traditional TV broadcasting, enabling users to watch live channels even without an internet connection. With this technology, it is expected to be useful during emergencies, reduce network congestion, and expand access to free-to-air public broadcasts.
What Is D2M Technology?
Add Zee News as a Preferred Source
D2M technology works in a similar way to FM radio and direct-to-home (DTH) television services. Just as FM radio stations send signals that are received by radios on specific frequencies, D2M will broadcast signals that can be received directly by smartphones. Like DTH, where a dish antenna receives signals from satellites and sends them to a set-top box, D2M will send content straight to mobile devices.
The technology will use terrestrial transmission infrastructure along with a dedicated spectrum to deliver signals directly to smartphones, without needing an internet connection.
Spectrum Allocation for D2M
The government plans to reserve the 470–582 MHz frequency band for D2M services. This spectrum will be specifically set aside to support the rollout of this new broadcast technology across the country, according to Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra, quoted by the Times of India.
Live TV Without Internet
One of the key benefits of D2M is that users will be able to watch live TV content, such as sports matches and news, without using mobile data. This could be especially useful in areas with poor internet connectivity or during situations where networks are overloaded.
Government Push
In June last year, IIT Kanpur released a white paper on D2M broadcasting in collaboration with Prasar Bharati and the Telecommunications Development Society. Later, in August 2023, the Ministry of Communications listed several use cases for D2M, including content delivery, education, and sharing important information during emergencies and disasters.
Benefits for Users and Networks
The government believes D2M can shift around 25–30% of video traffic away from mobile networks, helping reduce pressure on 5G services. According to reports, with nearly 80 crore smartphones in India and 69% of consumed content being video, the technology could play a major role in easing network congestion.
