In an age where streaming services dominate how we consume content, it’s easy to forget the charm and simplicity of live television. But what if you could combine the convenience of mobile phones with the power of free-to-air TV without depending on Wi-Fi or mobile data? That’s precisely what HMD Global and Lava International are bringing to the table in 2025. These two brands are turning heads by introducing mobile phones with built-in TV broadcast support powered by Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology. The result? A TV-on-the-go experience, even in areas with no internet access. Let’s dive into the details of this innovative leap, its technology, and how these new devices are set to reshape how we watch TV.
The Next Frontier: Watching TV Without the Internet
No Wi-Fi? No problem. That’s the core promise of the upcoming mobile phones from HMD and Lava. With their ability to receive live television broadcasts directly through over-the-air signals, these phones eliminate the need for traditional internet-based streaming.
This marks a significant shift in mobile entertainment, especially for users in remote or underserved regions where data networks are unreliable or expensive.
What Is D2M (Direct-to-Mobile) Technology?
At the heart of this innovation is D2M, or Direct-to-Mobile technology. D2M allows TV content to be broadcast directly to mobile devices using terrestrial signal frequencies, just like how old-school TVs pick up channels using an antenna.
Here’s what makes D2M so revolutionary:
- Zero dependency on the Internet
- Instant access to live news, sports, and emergency alerts
- Low battery consumption compared to data streaming
- No subscription or data charges for TV content
This technology has been developing for years and is finally reaching consumer-ready devices thanks to key industry players like Saankhya Labs.
Saankhya Labs and the SL3000 Chip
HMD and Lava’s phones are powered by the SL3000 chip from Saankhya Labs, a leading semiconductor company focused on next-gen wireless technologies.
The SL3000 is a multi-standard demodulator chip that enables D2M functionality by tuning into ultra-high-frequency (UHF) TV signals. Think of it as the brains behind the broadcast, translating signals into real-time content without any data connection.
This chip is efficient and highly scalable, meaning it could be used in everything from budget phones to premium devices and even IoT gadgets.
Lava’s Built-In UHF Antenna: A Game-Changer
While both brands use the same chip, Lava takes things further by adding a dedicated UHF antenna. This antenna ensures stronger signal reception, particularly in rural or fringe areas where terrestrial signal strength can fluctuate.
The UHF antenna acts like a built-in TV aerial, pulling in signals more reliably than a standard smartphone could. This allows users to enjoy smooth, uninterrupted broadcasts, regardless of location.
Inside the Hardware: What Powers These Phones?
Let’s take a closer look at the technical specifications of the Lava phone, which are tailored specifically for mobile TV consumption:
- Display: 2.8-inch screen for compact, energy-efficient viewing
- Battery: 2,200 mAh battery for extended TV playback
- Processor: MediaTek MT6261—optimized for low-power applications
- TV Chipset: SL3000 by Saankhya Labs
- TV Reception: Built-in UHF antenna for direct TV signal capture
- Connectivity: Basic GSM capabilities (no 4G or Wi-Fi needed for TV)
This isn’t a smartphone aiming to replace your iPhone or Galaxy. Instead, it’s a niche device with a focused purpose—free TV on a budget, wherever you are.
Collaboration Behind the Scenes: Lava and Tejas Networks
Lava’s D2M-enabled phone wasn’t developed in isolation. It results from a collaboration with Tejas Networks, an Indian telecom and networking firm also under the Tata Group umbrella.
Tejas Networks played a crucial role in fine-tuning the broadcast reception technology and integrating it with Lava’s mobile hardware. Together, the partnership aims to deliver affordable and reliable access to broadcast content for millions of users.
This collaboration is more than just business—it’s about digital inclusion, especially in areas where internet infrastructure lags.
Launch Timeline: WAVES 2025, Mumbai
HMD and Lava will unveil their D2M phones at the WAVES 2025 expo, held from May 1–4 at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
The event is expected to be a major launchpad for these phones and D2M technology as a whole. Tech enthusiasts, broadcasters, and telecom leaders will watch closely to see if this innovation delivers its promises.
Real-World Use Cases: Why These Phones Matter
Here’s why these phones could be a game-changer across various demographics:
- Disaster Response: In emergencies where mobile networks go down, broadcast TV can provide critical updates.
- Rural Entertainment: Millions of people in remote regions can now access free live sports, news, and shows.
- Education: Governments can use D2M to broadcast educational content to students in areas without online access.
- Cost Savings: Users no longer need to spend money on data plans or streaming subscriptions to watch live TV.
️ Challenges and Limitations
Of course, the D2M tech rollout isn’t without hurdles:
- Limited Content Availability: Initially, only select broadcasters may support D2M.
- Signal Coverage: While cities may get strong signals, rural areas face challenges.
- Hardware Adoption: Mainstream smartphone manufacturers must adopt the chip and antenna for mass use.
Still, these are solvable problems—and as adoption grows, the ecosystem will likely mature quickly.
The Future of D2M and Mobile Broadcasting
As spectrum regulation becomes more broadcast-friendly, we expect more manufacturers to follow suit. Imagine your future smartphone doubling as a miniature TV, complete with a content guide and recording features—all without the internet.
Governments may also see D2M as a strategic tool for public service broadcasting, especially in disaster-prone regions.
The possibilities are immense—and the launch of HMD and Lava’s phones is just the beginning.
Conclusion: A Broadcast Revolution in Your Pocket
With the launch of TV-ready phones from HMD and Lava, the lines between mobile devices and traditional televisions are blurring. This innovation isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about empowering millions with free, reliable access to live information and content.
Whether you’re in the heart of a city or a remote village, watching live TV on your phone without any data is compelling. And thanks to D2M technology, that vision is now a reality.
Get ready—TV is coming to your pocket, and you won’t need a single byte of data to enjoy it.
Selva Ganesh is the Chief Editor of this Blog. He is a Computer Science Engineer, An experienced Android Developer, Professional Blogger with 8+ years in the field. He completed courses about Google News Initiative. He runs Android Infotech which offers Problem Solving Articles around the globe.
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