All smartphone users rely on SIM cards for calling and internet access, with four major telecom operators in India: Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL. However, many have faced poor service quality and a flood of spam messages containing unsolicited links to fake websites. While telecom technology has advanced from 2G to 5G, users often remain unaware of the network type available in their area. To address these issues, starting October 1, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) will enforce new rules aimed at improving the telecom landscape. Here’s what you need to know.
Technology-Wise Mobile Coverage
Telecom companies provide multiple network technologies, and their availability varies by location. The same operator might offer different technologies like 2G, 4G, or 5G depending on the area. Therefore, users should select their network provider carefully based on coverage.
Under the new TRAI guidelines, telecom operators must display network technology availability on their websites. This will allow users to check which network technologies are accessible in their location. For example, starting October 1, Jio users can visit the company’s website, enter their location, and check if 5G is available in their area.
Whitelisting for SMS Links
To tackle spam, TRAI has mandated that telecom operators must only allow approved, whitelisted web links in SMS messages. This ensures that users will only receive secure, verified links. Previously, SMS messages could contain harmful links leading to scams or privacy breaches. Now, any link received via SMS—such as those related to investment plans—will be safe, minimizing the risk of financial loss or data theft.
The original deadline for telecom operators to comply with this rule was September 1, but it has been extended to October 1.
Quality of Service (QoS) Reports
TRAI has also updated its Quality of Service (QoS) standards for both mobile and landline services. Telecom operators will be required to publish their QoS performance metrics—such as network availability, call drop rates, and voice packet drop rates—on their websites every month and quarter, starting April next year. TRAI will also evaluate these parameters at the cellular level to ensure consistent performance.
These changes are expected to significantly enhance user experience, security, and transparency in India’s telecom sector.
