In a major push to increase the reach of public service broadcasting, the Indian government has requested smartphone and Smart TV manufacturers to pre-install WAVES, the official OTT platform of Prasar Bharati. This move, initiated in early 2026, aims to make the vast library of Doordarshan and Akashvani content immediately accessible to millions of new device owners.
The directive follows the successful launch of WAVES at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and aligns with the government’s broader strategy to modernize public media consumption.
What is WAVES? The “All-in-One” Public App
WAVES is more than just a streaming service; it is an integrated digital ecosystem designed to compete with global giants while preserving Indian cultural heritage.
- Nostalgic Classics: Access to legendary shows like Ramayan, Mahabharat, Shaktimaan, and Hum Log.
- Live Channels: Over 65 live TV channels, including all Doordarshan and Akashvani stations, plus popular private news and entertainment channels.
- Beyond Video: The app features e-Books (e-Bazaars), free-to-play gaming, and integration with the ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) for in-app shopping.
- Linguistic Diversity: Content available in over 12 languages and 10+ genres, ensuring inclusivity for rural and urban audiences alike.
The Pre-Installation Strategy
By asking manufacturers (including major smartphone brands and Smart TV makers like Samsung, LG, and Xiaomi) to pre-load the app, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) aims to:
- Bridge the Digital Divide: Ensure that users in remote areas have instant access to news, education, and entertainment without needing to navigate app stores.
- Combat “Bloatware” Criticism: Unlike controversial mandates for security apps (like the recently withdrawn Sanchar Saathi order), the WAVES pre-installation is framed as a utility-first move to provide free, high-quality family entertainment.
- Boost Discovery: With over 200 million demat accounts and a surging digital population, the government wants to ensure its “Vocal for Local” content is the first thing a user sees upon setting up a new device.
Device Compatibility Roadmap
| Device Type | Status |
| Android Smartphones | Pre-installation requested for all new models. |
| iPhones (iOS) | Available on App Store; pre-installation discussions ongoing. |
| Smart TVs | Integration with Android TV, Google TV, Samsung (Tizen), and LG (webOS). |
| Streaming Sticks | Native apps for Firestick and Apple TV. |
Monetization and the Creator Economy
The government isn’t just focusing on its own archives. As part of the “Creator’s Corner” initiative, WAVES is opening its doors to independent digital creators.
- Revenue Sharing: A highly competitive 90/10 revenue share model has been introduced to attract top-tier YouTubers and influencers to the platform.
- Pay-Per-View (PPV): A new pilot framework allows creators to earn based on “validated views,” providing a transparent and performance-linked income stream.
Privacy and User Choice
Learning from the feedback on previous mandates, officials have clarified that while the app will be pre-installed to enhance accessibility, it is intended to be user-friendly. Unlike certain mandatory security tools, WAVES is positioned as an entertainment and utility app, allowing users the standard flexibility typical of pre-loaded media applications on most modern OS platforms.
