In a groundbreaking move, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has finalized recommendations that mandate the inclusion of “Calling Name Presentation (CNAP)” as an additional service for all telecom operators. This move, inspired by the Department of Telecommunications’ proposal from two years ago, aims to bring about a new era of transparency, safety, and user-friendly experiences in the Indian telecommunications sector.
Key Highlights of TRAI’s Recommendations
TRAI’s recommendations require all telecom companies to offer CNAP as an additional service upon customer request. This feature will enable users to identify incoming callers by name, as registered with their telecom operator. The implementation of CNAP is not only a significant leap in improving user experience but also a crucial step in ensuring safety and security.
The CNAP model envisioned by TRAI suggests that, upon receiving a call, the caller’s name associated with the number will be displayed. This on-request feature will empower users with valuable information about incoming calls, contributing to a safer and more transparent telecommunication environment.
Potential Impact on the Telecom Ecosystem
The introduction of default caller ID services is expected to create a competitive landscape for existing caller identification service providers, such as Truecaller. Truecaller, operating on ad-free and subscription-based models, remains confident that its services, enriched with advanced functionalities beyond basic number identification, will continue to meet user expectations.
Challenges and Considerations
While the move towards default caller ID services is commendable, challenges lie ahead in terms of integration with commercial caller identification services in compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act of 2023. The impact on existing services, particularly on Truecaller’s user base in India, remains uncertain, as the default caller ID service has the potential to reshape user preferences in the telecom sector.
In conclusion, TRAI’s latest recommendations mark a significant milestone in the evolution of the Indian telecom landscape. By introducing caller ID with Aadhar verification, the regulatory authority aims to enhance transparency, safety, and user convenience in the ever-evolving domain of telecommunications.
