In a significant collaboration, Saankhya Labs, a subsidiary of Tejas Networks, along with US-based Sinclair, Inc., and Free Stream Technologies (an IIT-Kanpur incubated startup), are set to develop affordable direct-to-mobile (D2M) broadcast-enabled mobile devices. This partnership is aimed at enhancing India’s semiconductor journey while supporting the government’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
The devices, powered by Saankhya Labs’ Pruthvi-3 ATSC 3.0 chipsets, mark a critical step forward in India’s push towards self-reliance in technology. These chipsets are poised to enable multimedia delivery and datacasting capabilities, benefiting users with superior mobile broadcast services.
Having completed two years of trials and field validations in Bengaluru, Delhi, and the US, the next phase involves consumer trials for various D2M devices, including smartphones, USB dongles, and low-cost feature phones. The trials are expected to demonstrate compatibility with mobile chipsets from suppliers with a combined global market share exceeding 70%.
Parag Naik, CEO of Saankhya Labs, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing that it represents a step closer to mass adoption of D2M technology. Chris Ripley, President of Sinclair, highlighted the potential of low-cost feature phones in driving demand within India, predicting a significant market shift by 2025.
Free Stream Technologies is working on building a robust D2M ecosystem, aligning with Prime Minister Modi’s vision of making India a leader in cutting-edge technology.
Key Highlights:
- Collaboration for D2M Devices: Saankhya Labs, Sinclair, and IIT-Kanpur startup Free Stream Technologies join forces to design cost-effective D2M-enabled phones.
- Powered by Indian Chipset: Saankhya’s Pruthvi-3 ATSC 3.0 chipsets, developed in India, are a vital component in the new devices, advancing India’s semiconductor industry.
- Consumer Trials in 2025: Devices, including smartphones and feature phones, will undergo trials, setting the stage for market launch in the first half of 2025.