Updated on August 23, 2025 11:54:13 AM
In India, importing or selling smart speakers with wireless technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Zigbee requires a mandatory regulatory approval known as the WPC ETA (Equipment Type Approval) Certificate. This certificate, which was issued by the Ministry of Communications' Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing, guarantees that the smart speaker's wireless module conforms to Indian safety and frequency standards.
Wireless modules are used by smart speakers such as the Apple HomePod, Google Nest, and Amazon Echo to connect to the internet and other smart devices. Before being released onto the Indian market, these modules must be certified under the ETA scheme because they use unlicensed frequency bands. This rule encourages safer wireless communication practices by preventing interference with licensed frequency bands.
Manufacturers or importers must submit wireless module RF (Radio Frequency) test reports from a WPC-approved laboratory to receive a WPC ETA certificate. The module can be used if it is already certified. If not, new testing and approval are needed.
WPC Certificate Sample
Download WPC CertificateThe WPC-ETA Certificate (Equipment Type Approval) for smart speakers is issued by the Wireless Planning & Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.
This certification is mandatory for all smart speakers that operate on unlicensed frequency bands, such as 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz, before they can be imported, sold, or distributed in India.
The purpose of the WPC-ETA Certificate is to ensure that smart speakers comply with Indian safety and technical standards, operate within approved frequency ranges, and do not cause interference with licensed communication networks.
To obtain the certificate, the device must undergo RF testing in a TEC/NABL-accredited laboratory in India. Once compliance is confirmed, the application is submitted to WPC for evaluation and approval.
Having a valid WPC-ETA Certificate ensures legal compliance, smooth customs clearance, and builds trust among consumers and distributors. It is essential for businesses planning to import, manufacture, or sell smart speakers in the Indian market.
The following procedure can be considered for obtaining an ETA Certificate for Smart Speaker:
Radio Frequency Test should be conducted at the very first place as It is a mandatory step to acquire ETA Certificate, which tells the frequency range of the product to be circulated among the users while meeting the needs of the national standard.
An online application has to be filed at Saal Sanchar Portal. After entering the login credentials you will need to submit the required documents.
A particular amount is asked to deposit for further proceedings. Make sure to fulfill all the allowance for clearing the barriers and for securing the seat of receiving the ETA Certificate as soon as possible.
After completing the whole process, your documents will be checked by the WPC’s Officers to fulfill the requirements of achieving the Certificate.If there is transparency in your documents then you’ll be eligible for receiving the ETA Certificate.
All wireless equipment must be designed and manufactured to ensure that its emission bandwidth and other technical parameters remain within the specified limits, per the WPC Wing notification. Type Approval is required for such equipment. The Central Government must receive an application in the required format in order to grant this approval (WPC ETA Approval).
Frequency Band | GSR No. | GSR Date | Purpose/ Applications |
---|---|---|---|
13.553-13.567 MHz | GSR 884 | 04.11.2010 | Use of Very Low Power Radio frequency devices, for indoor applications |
433-434 MHz | GSR 680(E) | 12.09.2012 | Use of low power devices or equipment for indoor applications |
433-434.79 MHz | GSR 698 (E) | 16.09.2015 | Use of Very Low Power Radio frequency devices or equipment including Radio Frequency Identification Devices |
865-867 MHz | GSR 564 (E) | 30.07.2008 | Use of Very Low Power Radio frequency devices or equipment including Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) |
2.4-2.4835 GHz | GSR 45 (E) | 28.01.2005 | Low Power equipment i.e. Wireless LAN (W-LAN) Equipment using Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11b Standard |
5.15–5.250 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 | Use of low power wireless access point/fixed point-to-point access/mobile and portable client devices system including Radio Local Area Network, under indoor and outdoor environment. |
5.250–5.350 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 | |
5.470–5.725 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 | |
5.725–5.875 GHz | 1048(E) | 18.10.2018 |
To apply for a WPC Certificate , applicants must submit certain documents to the Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing under the Department of Telecommunications. These documents help verify the product details, applicant identity, and compliance with technical standards.
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi-enabled smart speakers are now a common option for smart offices and homes. They must obtain a WPC ETA Certificate:
The government fee for wpc certificate for smart speaker is ₹10,000, and professional service charges range from ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 depending on the consultant. The process usually takes 5 to 7 working days if the RF test report is ready.
WPC Registration Fees | |
---|---|
Government Fees | ₹10000 |
Professional fees | ₹7500 |
Total Cost | ₹17500 |
Note: The aforementioned Fees is exclusive of GST.
Conclusion
Obtaining an ETA Certificate does give the allowance to access several benefits.Dealing with Smart Speakers does require an ETA Certificate issued by the Wireless Planning and Coordination wing to ensure that the products meet the frequency standards of the nation, and not being harmful to the users.
The procedure for obtaining an ETA Certificate is lengthy. But Professional Utilities can help you complete the process and by clearing your doubts at ₹17500/-.
At Professional Utilities, we leverage our industry knowledge and expertise to help businesses navigate complex regulations, minimize risks, and optimize operations for maximum efficiency and profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions
In India, ETA Certificates are required to ensure that they are meeting the requirements of the users and also are following the national safety standard of frequency waves.
Any bluetooth or Wireless device like Wireless Speaker, Walkie-Talkie,Wireless Camera,Drones etc.
You can contact professional Utilities for the complete procedure.
The ETA Certificate is valid as long as the product exists.
Speak Directly to our Expert Today
Reliable
Affordable
Assured