Brazilian Regulatory Update
Brazilian regulatory agency Anatel has launched Public Consultation No. 36, presenting a proposal to update conformity evaluation requirements for Access Terminal Stations (ETA) and Cellular Mobile Telephony. This initiative aims to restrict the certification and approval of new equipment designed solely for 3G technology or lower within Personal Mobile Service (SMP) networks.
The proposed regulations stem from feedback collected during Subsidy Collection No. 23/2023, conducted by Anatel at the close of 2023. Stakeholder contributions emphasized strategies to accelerate the gradual transition from 2G and 3G to 4G and 5G technologies for telecommunications service users.
Under the proposed law, equipment already approved before its enactment may retain their certifications periodically, exempt from conforming to the updated technical requirements. Specifically, the law introduces new clauses 4.4 and 4.5 to Annex to Law No. 3151, effective September 19th, 2024:
- 4.4: Prohibits certification of modules or end products classified as personal mobile service access terminal stations compatible only with 3G or lower technologies.
- 4.5: Requires modules or end products classified as personal mobile service access terminal stations capable of supporting voice calls via VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology.
Additionally, new sections 4.5 and 4.6 are proposed to be added to Annex to Law No. 3152:
- 4.5: Prohibits certification of mobile phones compatible only with 3G or lower technologies.
- 4.6: Mandates that mobile phones support voice calls through VoLTE technology.
Exceptions include authorization for the approval of modules and final products compatible solely with 3G or lower technologies to fulfill spare parts requirements for the automotive industry, subject to explicit approval by Anatel's Certification and Numbering Management (ORCN).
This initiative underscores Brazil's commitment to advancing telecommunications infrastructure in alignment with global technological advancements, ensuring enhanced service capabilities and user experiences across mobile networks.
Regulatory Impact
- Top Priority: Yes
- Type Certificate: Yes
- Spectrum Bands: No
- Import Changes HS Codes: Yes
- Standard Changes: Yes
- Product Changes: Yes
- Label Changes: No
Regulatory Impact
| Impact Type | Status |
|---|---|
| Top Priority | |
| Type Certificate | |
| Spectrum Bands | |
| Import Changes (HS Codes) | |
| Standard Changes | |
| Product Changes | |
| Label Changes |