The Government of India is preparing to approach television manufacturers with a proposal to pre-install Prasar Bharati’s WAVES OTT App, on all new smart TVs sold in the country. The move is aimed at increasing public access to government-backed digital content and placing India’s public broadcaster alongside popular global streaming platforms already available on smart television sets.
Most smart TVs currently come with pre-loaded applications such as Netflix, YouTube, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ Hotstar. By adding the WAVES OTT app to this default list, the government hopes to ensure that Prasar Bharati’s content is easily discoverable and accessible to viewers from the moment they switch on their new televisions.
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Why the Government Is Promoting the WAVES OTT Platform
Launched in November 2024, WAVES is Prasar Bharati’s integrated digital platform that brings together a wide range of services under one application. It offers live television channels, video-on-demand content, radio streaming, podcasts, e-books, gaming options and e-commerce features, making it one of the most comprehensive public OTT platforms in India.
The platform currently hosts over 65 channels, including around 40 live channels, featuring content in multiple Indian languages such as Hindi, English, Tamil, Marathi, Assamese and others. It also provides access to archival programmes from Doordarshan and Akashvani, allowing audiences to revisit classic shows and culturally significant broadcasts.
Learning from Past App Pre-Installation Policies
The proposed move comes after a recent experience where the government attempted to mandate the pre-installation of the Sanchar Saathi app on smartphones. That decision faced resistance from device manufacturers and was later rolled back. As a result, the approach toward smart TV makers is expected to be more consultative rather than mandatory, with the government seeking cooperation instead of imposing a strict requirement.
Industry discussions suggest that manufacturers may be encouraged to include the WAVES app as part of their default app ecosystem, especially on TVs sold in India.
Expanding Reach in India and Abroad
One of the key reasons behind pre-installing WAVES on smart TVs is to significantly expand its user base. While mobile apps require users to actively search and download, smart TV pre-installation ensures instant visibility and higher adoption.
Currently, WAVES has already attracted millions of users and is reportedly accessed in over 180 countries, with strong viewership from regions such as the United States, United Kingdom, UAE, Australia and Europe. Making the platform available by default on smart TVs could further strengthen its domestic and international footprint.
Opportunities for Content Creators and Broadcasters
Prasar Bharati has also opened WAVES to private and licensed satellite TV channels under a revenue-sharing model. This initiative allows content creators, regional broadcasters and independent producers to reach a wider audience while benefiting from a government-backed distribution platform.
The integration of such content is expected to improve diversity on the platform and make it more competitive with private OTT services.
What This Means for Viewers
If implemented, smart TV users in India will gain free and direct access to public service content without needing additional subscriptions. This includes news, educational programming, cultural shows, regional entertainment and live broadcasts of national importance.
The initiative aligns with the government’s broader digital vision of promoting Indian content, strengthening public broadcasting, and reducing over-dependence on purely commercial OTT platforms.
Conclusion
The government’s plan to encourage smart TV manufacturers to pre-install Prasar Bharati’s WAVES OTT app marks an important step in the evolution of India’s public broadcasting in the digital age. While successful implementation will depend on industry cooperation, the move has the potential to significantly increase visibility, accessibility and relevance of public media in Indian households.
Prasar Bharati’s Waves OTT App – Quick FAQs
What is WAVES OTT?
WAVES is a free OTT platform by Prasar Bharati offering live TV, videos and radio in one app.
Is the WAVES app free?
Yes, WAVES is completely free with no subscription required.
Which channels are on WAVES?
It has 65+ channels, including 40+ live Doordarshan channels.
Where can I watch WAVES?
You can watch WAVES on mobile phones, smart TVs and web browsers.
Does WAVES support regional languages?
Yes, content is available in Hindi, English and multiple Indian languages.
Can I watch live TV on WAVES?
Yes, WAVES allows live TV streaming of public broadcaster channels
Are old Doordarshan shows available?
Yes, WAVES features classic and archived Doordarshan programmes.
Is WAVES available outside India?
Yes, WAVES is accessible in 180+ countries worldwide.
Why will WAVES be pre-installed on smart TVs?
To make public broadcasting easily accessible to all viewers.
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