Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has published the updated IMDA TS CMT Issue 1 Rev 4, defining the minimum technical and regulatory requirements for cellular mobile terminals operating in public mobile networks. The specification applies to devices supporting LTE-Advanced and 5G NR technologies and aligns with international standards such as 3GPP, ITU, ETSI, and IEC.

The update introduces key regulatory changes, including the mandatory deactivation of 2G connectivity by default, compulsory support for Voice over LTE (VoLTE), and enhanced requirements for emergency cell broadcast systems. Devices must be capable of receiving and displaying public warning alerts with standardized audio and vibration patterns, ensuring effective emergency communication.

Additionally, the specification strengthens requirements related to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radiofrequency exposure (SAR), battery safety, and overall device compliance testing. Manufacturers must demonstrate conformity through testing and certification processes before placing devices on the Singapore market.

These updates reinforce Singapore’s transition toward advanced mobile technologies while enhancing user safety, network efficiency, and emergency preparedness

The IMDA TS CMT Issue 1 Rev 4 published by the Infocomm Media Development Authority represents a medium-impact regulatory update, as it introduces important technical and compliance changes for mobile devices, while remaining within an existing regulatory framework rather than creating a new legal regime.

• Updated Mandatory Technical Requirements: Strengthens existing requirements in areas such as RF, EMC, SAR, and device safety, impacting certification and compliance processes.
• Default Deactivation of 2G Connectivity: Requires devices to have 2G disabled by default, accelerating the transition toward 4G/5G networks and requiring configuration changes by manufacturers.
• Mandatory VoLTE Support: Devices must support Voice over LTE and ensure compatibility with all mobile network operators, affecting device design and interoperability.
• Enhanced Emergency Alert Requirements (CBS): Introduces stricter requirements for cell broadcast alerts, including automatic display, standardized sound/vibration patterns, and priority handling, impacting software and user interface design.
• Alignment with International Standards: Maintains consistency with global standards (3GPP, ETSI, IEC), facilitating international market alignment while requiring updated compliance.
• Limited Scope to Technical Compliance: Does not introduce structural regulatory changes (e.g., licensing or market access rules), focusing instead on product-level technical requirements.

Who?

• Mobile Device Manufacturers: Must update device configurations and functionalities (VoLTE, CBS, 2G default settings).
• Importers and Distributors: Responsible for ensuring compliance before placing products on the Singapore market.
• Testing and Certification Laboratories: Need to apply updated testing and validation requirements.
• Mobile Network Operators: Benefit from improved interoperability and network modernization.
• End Users / Consumers: Benefit from enhanced safety, connectivity, and emergency alert capabilities.

Conclusion

The IMDA TS CMT Issue 1 Rev 4 update represents a medium-impact regulatory development for the mobile device industry in Singapore. While it does not introduce a new regulatory framework, it enforces meaningful updates to technical and compliance requirements that directly affect device configuration, certification, and interoperability.

Key changes such as mandatory VoLTE support, default 2G deactivation, and enhanced emergency alert functionality require manufacturers and suppliers to adapt both hardware and software designs. At the same time, alignment with international standards helps maintain global consistency and minimizes market fragmentation.