India’s indigenously designed Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) semiconductor chips took center stage at the IBC 2025 conference in Amsterdam, underscoring their market readiness across a range of devices. In contrast, global major Qualcomm has indicated that 5G Broadcast chips will only be available by 2028, delaying expectations for mass adoption.
India’s Innovation Steals the Spotlight
At IBC, D2M chips from India impressed global stakeholders, with Fraunhofer IIS’s Adrian Murtaza highlighting strong ecosystem readiness and cross-market appeal. Brazil, which has chosen ATSC3 over 5G Broadcast for next-generation TV services, is actively evaluating India’s D2M for mobile integration.
Qualcomm’s Delay on 5G Broadcast
At a panel titled “5G Broadcast: Ready for Launch”, Qualcomm’s Aytac Biber clarified that the company would not create a new standalone 5G Broadcast silicon. Instead, broadcast features will be embedded only in premium phones and fixed wireless devices, starting Q1 2028, with mid-tier rollout to follow later. This delay diminishes immediate prospects for India, where 5G broadcast had been anticipated.
Policy Push and Market Readiness
Back home, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on ICT has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to fast-track D2M adoption. Prasar Bharati has already partnered with IIT Kanpur to advance research. Industry veterans like Arvind Vohra argue D2M represents a “low-hanging fruit” for India’s semiconductor ambitions, with device makers like Lava, HMD Nokia, and Khushtech Korea already committing to integration.
A Viksit Bharat Opportunity
With over 200 million feature phone users in India, D2M offers inclusivity by supporting feature phones, smartphones, tablets, laptops, and even accessories like dongles and set-top boxes. The approach aligns with PM Modi’s semiconductor vision and positions India to not only serve domestic users but also emerging global markets such as Brazil and the US.
Final Take: As Qualcomm delays 5G Broadcast, India’s D2M chips have an open runway to become the global standard showcasing how indigenous innovation can leapfrog global majors.
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