All mobiles should have GPS; DoT insists

DoT has said no to handset makers' demand for using alternative technology instead of Global Positioning System (GPS) keeping in mind consumer safety. However, the industry has warned that it might result in prices of basic phones by over 50%.

The government has mandated GPS in all mobile phones sold in the country from January 1, 2018, so that subscribers can be located in the case of emergencies.

"GPS is the main tool regarding location details of the subscriber in emergency, so government has decided to implement it in all the mobile phone handsets from 1 January 2018 in a positive manner," said the DoT while replying to industry body Indian Cellular Association (ICA).

"In the view of above, it is re-iterated that all mobile phone handset manufacturers should also adhere for second part of the gazette notification dated 22-04-2016 for implementation of GPS facility in all mobile phone handsets ...," it added.

ICA had asked the government to allow installing A-GPS technology, which can help in locating callers using mobile towers that are near their respective locations, which is not very accurate. This is why the proposal was rejected.

However, ICA National President Pankaj Mohindroo has said that this would increase the price of low cost feature phones by over 50%.

(Image source The Next Web)