Download the Documents
- Download the TRAI consultation paper here: Formulation of a Regulatory Framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) Services (Including Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) Services) – [PDF]
- MIB’s letter to TRAI – [PDF]
- Letters from the All India Digital Cable Federation (AIDCF), Cloud TV (OS), and Xiaomi India to the MIB – [PDF]
What certification mechanism should be in place to ensure that TV manufacturers and operating system providers allow only MIB-authorised ALTD service apps, whether pre-installed on television sets or available for download through app stores and web platforms?
This question forms part of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)’s latest consultation paper seeking stakeholder comments on regulating Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) services across smart TVs, mobile phones, tablets, and web browsers.
Stakeholders can submit their feedback by May 4, 2026 at [email protected] and [email protected]
What Are ALTD & FAST Services?
Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) services refer to platforms that stream live, scheduled television channels over the internet through applications. These include linear live TV channels delivered free of cost via apps on smart TVs, mobile phones, tablets, or web browsers. In this business model, advertising typically generates all revenue, as the service generally does not require a subscription fee.
Definitions by International Regulators
- United Kingdom (Ofcom): “…linear channels that viewers access to watch TV shows, films, and other content without paying a subscription fee. These channels generate revenue through advertising.’
- Canada (CRTC): “… Connected TV video platforms that are typically free to watch, are advertising-supported, and provide linear channels and on-demand programming together.”
- Australia (ACMA): “…subscription-free streaming services that play live video content continuously like a traditional TV channel, but it is delivered via the internet. Some services may also offer advertising-based video on demand content.”
How TRAI defines FAST services: “…largely free and ad-supported services that offer television channels over the internet using an ‘application platform’.” In some cases, value-added services in the form of on-demand content are also included.
India ranks fourth globally in FAST service revenue after the United States, China, and Japan. According to a report by Muvi cited in the TRAI paper, India had 116.4 million FAST service users in 2023, a number expected to reach 148.6 million by 2027.
Why Does TRAI Want to Regulate FAST Apps? Cable operators and DTH providers are MIB-licensed, fee-paying entities that must follow content codes and are monitored by regulators. FAST platforms, however, deliver the same live TV channels to consumers without these obligations,…
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