Sri Lanka Moves Device Approvals to Online ECS
Sri Lanka has introduced a new digital process for telecommunications equipment approvals and clearance requests. The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) ended manual processing on September 30, 2026, and now requires applicants to use its Equipment Clearance System (ECS) for all relevant requests starting October 1, 2026. This change brings type approval, mobile […]
South Africa Spectrum Policy Update: WOAN Ends
South Africa has changed its high-demand radio frequency spectrum policy. The government has officially removed the spectrum reservation for a single Wireless Open Access Network (WOAN). The South Africa spectrum policy amendment took effect on September 25, 2026. It allows the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) to license the affected frequencies. The decision […]
United States: FCC Adopts New Test Lab Rules
On October 29, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted new FCC Test Lab Rules that will reshape electronic device testing for the U.S. market. The Commission approved the Third Report and Order and Third Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 26-73) through a unanimous 3–0 vote. The decision introduces new location requirements for testing […]
Singapore 2G Compliance Deadline for Handsets
The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has issued a reminder about Singapore 2G compliance requirements for mobile handsets. Section 5.2.3 of the IMDA Technical Specification for Cellular Mobile Terminals (IMDA TS CMT) requires manufacturers to disable 2G connectivity by default. Under this rule, handsets must not connect to 2G networks automatically. Users must take deliberate […]
United States: FCC Covered List Enforcement Begins
The FCC Covered List requirements have entered a new enforcement stage in the United States. On October 22, 2026, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that its Office of Engineering and Technology (OET) had prevented two devices—a dashboard camera and a wireless video transmitter—from being marketed or sold in the country. According to the FCC, […]
Nigeria NCC Device Verification Requirements
Nigeria has reinforced its compliance rules for SIM-enabled devices. On 19 October 2026, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) issued a notice to manufacturers, importers, distributors, dealers, and retailers. The notice reminds businesses of their duties under the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, Type Approval Regulations 2024, and Type Approval Business Rules 2024. The NCC device verification […]
UK Expands 6 GHz Wi-Fi Spectrum Under IR 2030
The United Kingdom has expanded its licence-exempt spectrum for wireless connectivity. On October 23, 2026, the Office of Communications (Ofcom) published Version 1.17 of the UK Interface Requirement 2030 (IR 2030), introducing an important update to UK Wi-Fi Spectrum regulations. The revision extends the authorised frequency range for Wireless Access Systems and Radio Local Area […]
Mexico Updates Cell Broadcast Requirements
Mexico has introduced updated Mexico Cell Broadcast requirements under the amendment to Technical Provision IFT-011-2022, Part 3. Published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF) on August 28, 2026, the amendment entered into force on October 27, 2026. The updated framework establishes technical and functional requirements for mobile phones and smartphones supporting Cell Broadcast […]
Ecuador Proposes 6 GHz Spectrum Update
Ecuador’s Telecommunications Regulation and Control Agency (ARCOTEL) has prepared a major proposal to modernize the country’s technical rules for unlicensed spectrum. The Ecuador 6 GHz proposal would amend Annex 1 of Resolution ARCOTEL-2018-0661, which establishes operating conditions for equipment using free spectrum and spectrum for determined use in free bands. Importantly, the regulatory text remains […]
Bangladesh NEIR Relaunch Adds Handset Blocking
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) plans to strengthen its National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR). During its meeting on 28 September 2026, BTRC approved a relaunch for 1 January 2027. The updated Bangladesh NEIR will introduce a key feature: the ability to block handsets produced or imported without authorization. The system first entered a trial […]