HMD, Lava to launch feature phones with direct-to-mobile technology

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On Monday, Human Mobile Devices (HMD) and Lava announced their plans to introduce feature phones with direct-to-mobile (D2M) technology in collaboration with FreeStream, Sinclair, and Tejas Networks. These devices will be introduced during the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025, taking place from May 1 to 4 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

Lava has confirmed that it has developed a new feature phone in collaboration with Tejas Networks, powered by the MediaTek MT6261 SoC and an integrated SL3000 chip by Saankhya. The device will include a 2.8-inch screen, a 2,200 mAh battery, and an ultra-high frequency (UHF) antenna for receiving terrestrial TV broadcast airwaves.

While HMD has confirmed plans to introduce an affordable feature phone with D2M technology, the brand has not revealed the technical specifications yet. However, it has confirmed that the device will be powered by the SL3000 chipset from Saankhya Labs.

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What is D2M technology, and how does it work?

To stream content from platforms like YouTube, Netflix, or other digital services, a device typically needs to be connected to the internet via Wi-Fi or mobile data. With D2M technology, however, the device can directly receive broadcast signals and stream multimedia content without requiring an active internet connection. This will be similar to listening to an FM radio on our phones and cars, where it will deliver both video and audio.

Beyond multimedia, D2M technology can also be used to deliver emergency alerts and educational content more efficiently. In India, D2M technology has already been extensively tested on live networks by Prasar Bharati and is based on Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) 3.0 standards, particularly for affordable mobile devices.

Despite the rapid adoption of smartphones in India, there are still over 230 million feature phone users. This technology could be game-changing for those who cannot afford a smartphone but still want access to live sports, entertainment, news alerts, and more on the go.