In February 2026, Singapore’s Info-communications Media Development Authority released Issue 1 Rev 4 of the IMDA Technical Specification for Cellular Mobile Terminals. The updated specification strengthens safety, radio performance, and emergency communication requirements for devices operating on public mobile networks. The revised framework applies to cellular mobile terminals used on IMT-2000, LTE-Advanced, LTE-Advanced Pro, and 5G NR networks. This includes handheld devices, portable equipment, vehicle-mounted terminals, RF interface cards, and modems.
Expanded Scope Across 4G and 5G Technologies
The specification confirms that devices must support approved operating bands and comply with recognized international standards for LTE and 5G NR. This includes conformance to ETSI EN 301 908 series standards for E-UTRA and NR, as well as 3GPP-based technical requirements for performance and interoperability.
Operating frequency bands now cover a wide range of LTE and NR bands, including Band 26 and Band 28 for LTE and FR1 and FR2 5G bands such as n77, n78, n257, n258, and n261. Manufacturers must ensure that the precise frequency configuration aligns with the licensed network operator’s spectrum allocation.
Mandatory 2G Deactivation by Default
A significant regulatory change in this revision is the requirement that 2G connectivity must be disabled in the factory default configuration. Devices must not connect or attempt to connect to 2G networks unless the user deliberately enables the feature through a clear and intentional action in the settings menu. This requirement reflects Singapore’s transition away from legacy technologies and ensures devices prioritize modern LTE and 5G networks by default.
VoLTE as a Default Requirement
Cellular mobile terminals designed for voice calling must support Voice-over-LTE in accordance with 3GPP specifications. VoLTE functionality must be enabled by default and compatible with all Singapore mobile network operators.
Devices must also:
• Automatically configure VoLTE settings based on the serving network operator profile
• Support emergency call functionality over VoLTE
• Allow downloading of additional emergency numbers provided by the network
This ensures seamless voice interoperability while maintaining compliance with national emergency communication standards.
Enhanced Emergency Cell Broadcast Capabilities
The revision introduces expanded requirements for emergency cell broadcast functionality, aligning with Singapore’s public alert system.
Devices must support:
• Reception of cell broadcast messages up to 1395 characters
• Multi-language message display
• Automatic display of alerts without user interaction
• Storage and later review of warning notifications
Alert behavior must also follow strict audio and vibration cadence requirements based on FCC Part 10 specifications, including defined tone frequencies and vibration timing patterns. SG Alert notifications must override “Do Not Disturb” settings and play at maximum volume, while Test Alerts follow separate configuration parameters.
The specification further clarifies message IDs, language filtering settings, user opt-out conditions for test alerts, and required presentation of URLs or embedded phone numbers within alert messages.
RF Exposure, EMC, and Safety Updates
Manufacturers must continue to demonstrate compliance with RF electromagnetic field safety standards aligned with ICNIRP guidelines. The revision reinforces the transition toward IEC/EN 62209-1528 and IEC/IEEE 63195-1 measurement standards for SAR and power density assessments.
Electromagnetic compatibility testing remains mandatory, with classification based on whether equipment is portable, mobile, or vehicular. Devices must comply with ETSI EN 301 489-1 and EN 301 489-52 for LTE and 5G technologies, along with CISPR emission and immunity standards where applicable. Equipment safety testing must meet IEC 62368-1 requirements, and lithium batteries must comply with UL 1642, IEC 62133, or IEC 60086-4.
Structured Conformance and Supplier Declaration
Annex A of the specification provides a detailed conformance checklist supporting Supplier’s Declaration of Conformity. It distinguishes between mandatory, conditional, voluntary, and not applicable requirements across LTE, 5G FR1, and 5G FR2 configurations, including RedCap and interworking scenarios.
The structured checklist approach provides greater clarity for manufacturers preparing regulatory submissions and ensures consistent compliance validation across different device categories.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Singapore
Certification Body: Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: 60 Months
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Local Representative
In-Country Testing Requirement: Testing Not Required
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