D2M Technology in India: Internet-Free Mobile TV with HMD and Lava Phones

India is on the brink of a revolutionary shift in mobile content consumption with the upcoming launch of Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology. Spearheaded by HMD Global (makers of Nokia phones) and Lava International, in collaboration with FreeStream Technologies, Tejas Networks, and Sinclair Inc., D2M-enabled phones are set to transform how users access OTT content, live TV, and more—without requiring an internet connection. Utilizing terrestrial TV broadcast airwaves, this technology promises to deliver seamless multimedia experiences, especially in areas with limited internet access. Announced ahead of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 in Mumbai, D2M is poised to align with India’s Make in India and Viksit Bharat initiatives. In this article, we explore D2M technology, its India launch, how it works, and its benefits for users.

What is D2M Technology?

Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) is a next-generation broadcasting technology that delivers live TV, video, audio, text messages, and OTT content directly to mobile devices using terrestrial TV broadcast signals, eliminating the need for Wi-Fi or mobile data. Similar to how FM radio works, D2M uses a receiver within the phone to capture broadcast signals, enabling seamless content delivery without internet dependency. Based on the ATSC 3.0 standard (Advanced Television Systems Committee), D2M integrates broadcast and broadband technologies to provide high-quality multimedia experiences.

Developed by Saankhya Labs (a subsidiary of Tejas Networks) and tested by IIT Kanpur and Prasar Bharati, D2M operates in the 526-582 MHz spectrum band, which is ideal for both mobile and broadcast services. The technology is designed to support a range of applications, from entertainment to emergency alerts, making it a versatile tool for digital inclusion.

D2M Technology India Launch: HMD and Lava Lead the Way

On April 28, 2025, HMD Global and Lava International announced their plans to launch D2M-enabled phones in India, with an official unveiling scheduled at WAVES 2025 (May 1–4, 2025) at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai. This initiative is a collaborative effort with:

• FreeStream Technologies (IIT Kanpur-incubated startup): Driving the D2M ecosystem development.
• Tejas Networks: Providing the SL-3000 D2M chipset and core network infrastructure for targeted ads, content delivery, and emergency alerts.
• Sinclair Inc.: Contributing expertise in ATSC 3.0 and developing the next-generation Broadcast to Everything (B2X) technology for future 6G needs.

Lava has already revealed a D2M feature phone powered by a MediaTek MT6261 SoC with an integrated SL-3000 chip. Key specifications include:

• 2.8-inch QVGA display
• UHF antenna for TV reception
• GSM support for voice calls
• 2,200mAh battery

HMD is set to introduce both feature phones and smartphones with D2M capabilities, emphasizing affordability to cater to mass consumers. Large-scale field trials are expected to begin shortly, following successful pilot tests in cities like Delhi, Noida, and Bengaluru in 2024. These trials aim to evaluate the technology’s scalability and performance across diverse regions.

How Does D2M Technology Work?

D2M technology operates similarly to traditional TV or radio broadcasting but is optimized for mobile devices. Here’s a simplified explanation of how it works:

1. Broadcast Infrastructure: Terrestrial TV towers transmit multimedia content (live TV, videos, audio, or text) over the 526-582 MHz spectrum.
2. Specialized Hardware: D2M-enabled phones feature a dedicated SL-3000 chipset and UHF antenna to receive and decode these broadcast signals.
3. Content Delivery: Users access content directly on their devices without relying on cellular networks or Wi-Fi, ensuring no data consumption or buffering issues.
4. Core Network Platform: Tejas Networks’ infrastructure supports advanced features like targeted ads, educational content delivery, CDN offload, and emergency alerts.

This setup allows D2M to deliver high-quality content even in densely populated areas or regions with poor internet connectivity, reducing the load on 5G networks by offloading 25–30% of video traffic, according to Information and Broadcasting Secretary Apurva Chandra.

Benefits of D2M Technology for Users

D2M technology offers transformative benefits for users, telecom operators, and content providers, particularly in a country like India with 80 crore smartphone users and 23 crore feature phone users. Here are the key advantages:

1. Internet-Free Content Access

• Users can stream live TV, OTT content, and videos without consuming mobile data or needing Wi-Fi, making entertainment affordable and accessible.
• Ideal for rural and remote areas with limited or no internet connectivity, bridging the digital divide.

2. Cost Savings

• By eliminating data costs for video streaming, D2M reduces the financial burden on users, especially those with limited budgets.
• The integration of D2M chipsets is estimated to add only ₹120–200 to device costs at scale, ensuring affordability.

3. Enhanced Digital Inclusion

• D2M can reach 8–9 crore “TV-dark” households (without television sets) by delivering video content to smartphones, democratizing access to information and entertainment.
• Supports India’s Viksit Bharat vision by providing educational content to students in underserved areas.

4. Emergency Alerts and Public Services

• D2M enables direct delivery of emergency alerts, disaster management updates, and public safety messages, ensuring reliable communication during crises.
• The technology supports firmware upgrades over the air (FOTA) for devices like automobiles, enhancing functionality without internet reliance.

5. Network Efficiency

• By offloading video traffic to broadcast networks, D2M reduces congestion on 5G networks, improving data speeds and reducing call drops for telecom operators.
• Enhances network resilience, especially during high-traffic events like live sports or news broadcasts.

6. High-Quality Streaming

• D2M delivers buffer-free, high-quality video and audio, as it doesn’t rely on variable internet speeds, ensuring a seamless user experience.

HMD and Lava D2M Phones: What to Expect

The collaboration between HMD and Lava aims to create a robust D2M device ecosystem that caters to both budget-conscious and premium users. Key highlights include:

• Lava’s Feature Phone: Designed for affordability, this device integrates the SL-3000 chipset and a UHF antenna, making it ideal for rural users and feature phone enthusiasts. Its low-cost design aligns with Lava’s commitment to accessible technology.
• HMD’s Offerings: HMD plans to launch a range of feature phones and smartphones, leveraging its expertise in Nokia-branded devices to deliver innovative, consumer-focused products.
• Make in India: Both companies emphasize local manufacturing, with Lava’s production facilities in Noida capable of producing 42.52 million handsets annually. This supports India’s self-reliance goals.

The devices are expected to be priced competitively, with Sumeet Nindrajog, Director of FreeStream Technologies, highlighting the companies’ ability to supply devices at scale as a testament to D2M’s future success.

Challenges and Considerations

While D2M technology holds immense potential, its rollout faces several challenges:

1. Device Compatibility: Existing smartphones lack D2M-compatible chipsets, requiring new hardware integration, which could initially increase device costs by up to ₹2,500 (though costs are expected to drop with scale).
2. Infrastructure Needs: A dense network of terrestrial towers is required for nationwide coverage, posing logistical and cost-related challenges.
3. Stakeholder Resistance: Telecom operators may oppose D2M, as it could reduce data revenue, given that 80% of internet traffic is video-related.
4. Regulatory Hurdles: The government must finalize spectrum allocation and regulatory policies to ensure smooth adoption.

Despite these challenges, the Indian government is committed to D2M’s success, with plans to conduct pilot projects in 19 cities to assess feasibility.

Why D2M is a Game-Changer for India

D2M technology aligns perfectly with India’s digital and economic goals, offering a unique solution to the country’s diverse connectivity challenges. Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

• Reaching the Unconnected: With 800 million smartphone users and a projected 1 billion by 2026, D2M can deliver content to a massive audience, including those in low-connectivity zones.
• Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat: As an indigenous technology developed by Saankhya Labs and IIT Kanpur, D2M showcases India’s innovation prowess.
• Empowering Rural India: By providing educational resources, weather updates, and entertainment without internet costs, D2M empowers farmers, students, and rural communities.
• Emergency Preparedness: D2M’s ability to broadcast emergency alerts directly to millions of devices enhances India’s disaster management capabilities.

Comparison with Alternatives

D2M stands out compared to other content delivery methods:

• Vs. 5G Streaming: While 5G offers high-speed internet, it relies on data plans and network coverage, which D2M bypasses for video content.
• Vs. DTH/Cable TV: D2M delivers content directly to mobiles, eliminating the need for set-top boxes or TV sets, making it more accessible.
• Vs. FM Radio: D2M extends beyond audio to deliver video, OTT content, and interactive services, offering a richer experience.

Future of D2M Technology

Looking ahead, D2M is set to evolve with Broadcast to Everything (B2X) technology, which will cater to 6G requirements and enable new applications across industries. The technology’s success will depend on:

• Ecosystem Development: Widespread adoption of D2M-compatible devices.
• Infrastructure Expansion: Nationwide deployment of terrestrial towers.
• Consumer Demand: User interest in internet-free content access.

As HMD and Lava lead the charge, D2M could redefine mobile communication in emerging markets, positioning India as a pioneer in next-generation broadcasting.

Conclusion

The launch of D2M technology in India, driven by HMD Global and Lava International, marks a significant step toward internet-free mobile TV and digital inclusion. By enabling users to access live TV, OTT content, and emergency alerts without Wi-Fi or data, D2M addresses India’s unique connectivity challenges. With field trials on the horizon and support from Tejas Networks, FreeStream Technologies, and Sinclair, D2M is poised to revolutionize media consumption, particularly in rural and underserved areas. As the technology rolls out in 2025, it will empower millions with affordable, high-quality content, aligning with India’s vision of a digitally empowered future.

For the latest updates on D2M-enabled phones, stay tuned to announcements from HMD, Lava, and the WAVES 2025 summit. Visit freestream.ai or lavamobiles.com for more information on this groundbreaking technology.

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