What Manufacturers Should Know about BIS Standards for Smart Speakers?

In the Indian markets, the hands-free activation speaker takes a significant place. Not only in India, but all over the world, there are the top six companies that launched voice-activated smart speakers. With the increasing demand for smart speakers in the market, the government introduced several guidelines. Conversely, voice-activated speakers are subject to the Compulsory Registration Order. It indicates that it is essential for a speaker manufacturer to register with the Bureau of Indian Standards.

Whoever is associated with voice-activated speaker manufacturing, importation, or distribution is required to obtain a BIS license in India. Conducting business in India without an appropriate license is considered unlawful. Before applying for BIS registration, the manufacturer should know the common standards for compliance. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the standards and compliance requirements that manufacturers must follow to sell smart speakers, including requirements and more. Let’s explore it in more detail.

What is BIS CRS for Smart Speaker?

The Bureau of Indian Standards has outlined certain electronic and IT products that require a BIS license, including voice-activated speakers. Electronic and ID products that fall under the Compulsory Registration Scheme require a certificate to be sold in Indian markets. In the same vein, smart speakers such as Siri, Alexa, and others are included under the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme. Obtaining BIS certification for smart speakers is crucial in India prior to their introduction to the market.

The main goal is to mandate the BIS license registration to ensure that the manufacturer adheres to Indian safety and quality standards. For this license, the manufacturer can apply online or hire a consultant. 

The Legal Compliance for Smart Speakers?

The regulatory authority has designed a specific requirement for those establishments that are involved in voice-activated device operation, from manufacturing to importation. Furthermore, to gain market access in India, the manufacturers need to be aware of the BIS standard. Specifically, IS 616:2017. This Indian standard covers the safety requirements. Here are the key aspects of the BIS standard for speakers:

Mandatory Certification:

Under the IS 616:2017, obtaining the BIS license for speakers is mandatory to sell products in India. The standards and regulatory authority requirements determine that both Indian and foreign manufacturers must adhere to the Bureau of Indian Standards. 

Electrical Safety:

BIS for smart speakers is to prevent users from potential hazards like electric shock. It is crucial to ensure the safety standards to protect users from injuries.

Performance and thermal safety:

Smart speaker performance standards include sound quality, voice command, and other qualities. During the manufacturing process, manufacturers are required to adhere to these standards. Smart speaker BIS certification covers heat dissipation to protect against overheating and ensure safe operation.

Testing and Registration:

All speaker manufacturers are required to follow the testing process. They are obligated to present their product samples to the accredited BIS laboratory for assessment. After the successful testing of the product sample to ensure their safety and quality standards, the manufacturers can proceed with the BIS license apply online. 

Marking and Documentation:

The speaker manufacturers are required to gather the necessary documents like identity and address proof, including business registration license, test reports, and many other things. After the successful BIS registration, the ISI mark symbol will be displayed on your product.

Market Access and Consumer Trust:

BIS certification for a speaker in India is mandatory to sell. It boosts the trust of buyers by guaranteeing them that products meet the stringent rules and regulations. 

Competitive advantage and penalties:

By meeting compliance with the BIS standard, the manufacturers can enhance their reputation in the market, which directly boosts brand image in the competitive market. However, non-compliance with authority standards can lead to serious legal penalties. Non-compliance can also block you from the market and lead to seizure by BIS officials. 

Final Thoughts | BIS for smart speakers—IS 616:21017

Navigating the registration process for the voice-activated speakers can seem simple at times. But the important step is to be aware of the Indian standard requirements. A valid license is required before selling any product in India. The majority of products, such as Alexa and Siri speakers, are subject to the BIS Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). This signifies that getting the license is important, but being aware of and complying with the Bureau of Indian Standards, specifically IS 616:2017, is also essential. In the fast-growing world, a consultant’s advice can be your best choice. At Legal Raasta, we assist and direct customers on how they can achieve their goals. Get in touch with us now for BIS registration for your product. 

FAQ | Smart Speaker BIS Registration Certificate

1. Is BIS certification required for speakers?

Ans. Yes, to sell IT-based and electronic products like a smart speaker in India, you need to register with the Bureau of Indian Standards.

2. How can I check if smart speakers are BIS-certified?

Ans. To check the BIS-certified speaker, use the certification verification portal to get details.

3. What is the cost for speaker registration?

Ans. The cost of a BIS license depends on multiple factors, including product type, testing requirements, and many more. However, the general cost ranges from Rs 50,000 to Rs 200,000 or more. 

4. How long does it take to get a BIS license in India?

Ans. The timeline depends on the different processes. For the BIS CRS, the registration period varies from 30 to 45 days. To bear the ISI mark, the process takes 45 to 90 days, while the foreign manufacturers can secure the license between 120 and 180 days. 

5. Who issues the BIS certificate?

Ans. In India, a BIS license is allotted by the Bureau of Indian Standards, the national regulatory authority.