On July 8, 2024, Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) held a consultation on a draft technical regulation. This draft focused on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for hand-held and body-worn wireless communication devices, designated as QCVN 134:2024/BTTTT. This draft aims to refine safety standards for devices that emit radio frequencies, ensuring they meet rigorous…

On July 5, 2024, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) of the Philippines issued Memorandum Circular No. 002-07-2024. This document introduced significant updates to the regulations governing wireless LAN technologies. This new directive revises the operating parameters for several frequency bands, impacting both indoor and outdoor wireless applications. Key Updates Frequency Bands and Power Limits The…

Bahrain is set to lead the region by enabling Next-Generation Wi-Fi 7 products. The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has introduced an updated Technical Specifications document and supporting regulatory motions, paving the way for the latest advancements in wireless technology. This update includes new specifications for Wi-Fi 7 and the expansion of spectrum ranges 5470 –…

Oman is implementing significant updates to its Type Approval certificate validity and labeling requirements. Effective August 21, 2024, the validity period for Type Approval certificates will be reduced from indefinite to a fixed term of four years. This change applies to both new and existing certifications. Any Type Approval certificates issued more than four years…

Last week, ANATEL launched Public Consultation No. 36/2024, proposing the discontinuation of 2G and 3G technologies. These older technologies are increasingly inadequate for today’s digital service demands. Their phase-out will enable a stronger focus on advancing 4G and 5G technologies. The consultation period ends on September 18, 2024, and includes several key proposals. Amendments to…

On July 3, 2024, Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) announced the launch of a public consultation regarding the allocation of the 4.9 GHz frequency band for 5G mobile communications systems. This consultation is designed to gather feedback from stakeholders and interested parties on the proposed frequency allocation. Comments can be submitted until…

Beginning June 1, 2025, Malaysia’s Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will implement a new policy banning the use of Fixed-Satellite Service Earth Stations and Ultra-Wideband (UWB) Communication Devices within the 3400 MHz to 3700 MHz frequency band. This decision, following the cancellation of the class assignment under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, means that…

On July 1, 2024, the Telecommunication Engineering Centre (TEC) of India announced an extension for the mandatory certification dates of five critical products under the Mandatory Testing and Certification of Telecommunication Equipment (MTCTE) scheme This extension impacts products listed under Phases III, IV, and V of the MTCTE notifications. The following products now have a…

The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) of the UAE has initiated an extensive consultation process to explore the deployment of private 5G networks within the country. This effort aims to collect valuable insights and feedback from a wide range of stakeholders, ensuring the TDRA remains at the forefront of technological progress while incorporating…

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), along with major mobile network operators Singtel Mobile, StarHub Mobile, and M1 Limited, are ceasing 3G networks and services in Singapore soon on July 31, 2024. This shutdown will impact devices that rely on 3G for emergency calls, especially older models registered before 2020. Users of these devices will…

The Indonesian Directorate General of Posts and Information Resources & Equipment (SDPPI) has introduced a significant update to its telecommunications equipment certification process. Through Decree Number 109 of 2024, issued on March 27, 2024, SDPPI recognizes a new set of overseas test centers, enhancing the certification framework for international manufacturers. This update is a part…

The Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFETEL) in Mexico will be suspending its activities for two weeks in July and another two weeks in December this year. During these periods, no certificates will be issued, and no reviews will be performed, which means a delay of two weeks on top of the standard lead times for any…