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Who controls what you watch: TRAI's new rules for smart TV apps explained

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Who controls what you watch: TRAI's new rules for smart TV apps explained

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Who controls what you watch: TRAI's new rules for smart TV apps explained

TRAI has proposed an authorisation framework for internet-based TV services that could affect which apps are available on smart TVs

TRAI has proposed authorisation requirements for internet-based television apps and compliance obligations for smart TV manufacturers and operating system providers

Harsh Shivam New Delhi 8 min read Last Updated : Oct 27 2026 | 3:58 PM IST

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has proposed a new authorisation framework for internet-based television services that could change how viewers access live TV channels through smart TVs. Under the recommendations released on October 26, device manufacturers and operating system providers would have to ensure that only authorised application-based linear television distribution (ALTD) apps are available through their devices and app stores.

The proposal extends the regulatory framework beyond broadcasters and television distribution platforms to the software through which viewers access channels. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) would maintain a central repository of authorised apps, while service providers would need government authorisation to distribute scheduled television channels over the internet.

The recommendations follow a debate over whether internet-based television services should face rules similar to those governing cable and direct-to-home (DTH) operators. Earlier, the issue centred on whether channels available free through smart TV apps should be subject to the same pricing and distribution requirements as channels carried by conventional television operators.


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