TRAI WANTS RULES FOR APP-BASED CALLS

New Delhi, Oct. 24: Telecom regulator Trai on Tuesday suggested a framework for appbased calling on mobile operators’ networks and having a provision for making calls on by using Wi-Fi networks.

These recommendations of the Trai to the DoT are meant for service providers holding valid telecom licences and exclude calls made from mobile apps like Whatsapp, Viber and Google Duo, a Trai official told PTI.

The recommendations address the issues raised by private telecom operators over state-owned BSNL’s mobile calling app which aimed at facilitating international calls at local rates.

BSNL had launched an app early this year for its subscribers to connect with BSNL network though the app using WiFi or internet service when abroad and make calls to any network in India.

However, the service was put on hold after private telecom operators alleged that BSNL was attempting to bypass call connection charges with the help of the app.

The Trai recommendations said such internet telephony apps will have to be linked with mobile number series.

The calls will be charged by telecom operators and all rules related to normal calls will be applicable on them. “The licensees should comply with all the interception and monitoring related requirements as specified in the licence as amended from time to time for providing Internet Telephony,” Trai said.