The Indian telecom landscape is poised for a significant transformation as the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) rolls out its final set of recommendations to introduce caller identification (caller ID) as a default feature in domestic telecom networks.
This development, long awaited since the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) floated the initial proposal nearly two years ago, promises to usher in a new era of transparency and user convenience in telecommunication services.
Key Highlights of TRAI’s Recommendations
TRAI’s finalized recommendations suggest that all telecom companies should provide the “Calling Name Presentation (CNAP)” service as an “additional service” on request by customers. This proposition is not just a leap towards enhancing user experience but also a step forward in ensuring safety and security by enabling users to identify incoming callers by name, as registered with their telecom operator.
The CNAP model recommended by TRAI envisions a system where, upon receiving a call, the name associated with the number will be displayed, functioning as an on-request feature for users. This recommendation came after a series of consultations and deliberations following DoT’s initial proposal in March 2022 and TRAI’s consultation paper on CNAP in November 2022.
Potential Impact on the Telecom Ecosystem
The introduction of default caller ID services is anticipated to create a competitive environment for existing caller identification service providers like Truecaller, which operates on ad-free and subscription-based models. Truecaller, in response to TRAI’s recommendations, expressed confidence that their services offer a comprehensive range of functionalities beyond basic number identification, leveraging their technology and AI capabilities.
Challenges and Considerations
The implementation of such a service nationwide poses several challenges, including how it will integrate with commercial caller identification services in compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023. Furthermore, the impact on Truecaller’s substantial user base in India remains to be seen, as the default caller ID service could potentially alter the dynamics of user preferences and choices in the telecom sector.