The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) yesterday issued a detailed consultation paper proposing a regulatory framework for Application-based Linear Television Distribution (ALTD) services, including Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) platforms, with the objective of defining this emerging segment, addressing regulatory gaps and ensuring parity with traditional broadcasting systems while safeguarding consumer interests.

The consultation squarely focuses on multiple core issues arising from the rapid growth of ALTD and FAST services, particularly the absence of a formal regulatory structure governing such platforms despite their functional similarity to cable TV, DTH and IPTV.

TRAI has highlighted concerns of regulatory arbitrage, noting that app-based platforms deliver scheduled linear channels over the internet without being subject to licensing, content codes or tariff rules applicable to traditional distribution platforms.

A central issue under discussion is the definition and scope of ALTD services, with TRAI proposing to formally recognise them as platforms that deliver linear television channels—along with possible on-demand content—through applications on connected devices.

The paper emphasises that ALTD services occupy a “hybrid” position between broadcasting and OTT, and seeks stakeholder views on whether they should be explicitly brought within the broadcasting regulatory framework. Another major consultation point relates to the identification of the responsible entity in the ALTD ecosystem, which includes multiple stakeholders such as TV manufacturers, operating system providers, application providers and content aggregators.

TRAI has flagged the complexity of this value chain and the resulting lack of clear accountability for compliance, and has sought comments on whether application providers—being the primary interface for aggregation and distribution—should be designated as the entity responsible for authorisation, content compliance and consumer obligations.

The paper also raises significant concerns around content regulation and adherence to existing laws, noting instances of channels being distributed without appropriate permissions. TRAI has sought views on mandating compliance with the Programme and Advertising Codes under the Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act, and on establishing monitoring, record-keeping and enforcement mechanisms for ALTD platforms.

Closely linked is the issue of carriage of pay TV channels on FAST platforms without subscription, which the regulator has identified as a potential violation of tariff frameworks and a source of market distortion.

On the economic and competition front, TRAI has flagged the need to ensure a level playing field between traditional and digital distribution platforms. The consultation seeks inputs on authorisation requirements, possible licensing frameworks, and obligations for broadcasters and platform operators to prevent unfair competitive advantages.

It also examines pricing transparency, revenue models and business arrangements, given the diverse and fragmented structures through which FAST services operate, including embedded TV platforms, third-party aggregators and OS-driven ecosystems. Consumer-centric issues form another major pillar of the consultation.

TRAI has invited views on instituting grievance redressal mechanisms, service standards and transparency norms for ALTD providers, similar to those applicable to traditional operators. Additionally, it has raised the need for integration of ALTD viewership data into audience measurement systems, improved data governance practices, and clarity on user data handling, given the growing role of connected TV and app-based consumption.

Enumerating the key issues for consultation, TRAI has specifically sought stakeholder comments on: (i) definition and regulatory classification of ALTD services; (ii) identification of the primary responsible entity; (iii) need for authorisation or licensing regime; (iv) applicability of programme and advertising codes; (v) treatment of pay TV channels and tariff compliance; (vi) obligations of broadcasters and platform operators; (vii) consumer protection and grievance redressal; (viii) ensuring fair competition and regulatory parity; (ix) transparency in business and revenue models; and (x) integration with audience measurement and data governance frameworks.

The regulator has invited comments from stakeholders by May 4, 2026, and counter-comments by May 18, as it moves toward framing a comprehensive regulatory approach for the fast-expanding app-based television distribution ecosystem.