IMDA Opens Consultation on Updated Cellular Mobile Terminal Specification
Singapore’s Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) has released Draft IMDA Technical Specification for Cellular Mobile Terminals (IMDA TS CMT Issue 1 Rev 4, Feb 2026) for public consultation. This IMDA TS CMT draft sets out updated minimum technical requirements for Cellular Mobile Terminals used in Singapore’s public mobile radio communication systems.
The consultation remains open until 9 February 2026, during which stakeholders may submit comments to IMDA.
Scope and Applicability of IMDA TS CMT Issue 1 Rev 4
The Draft IMDA TS CMT Issue 1 Rev 4 defines technical requirements applicable to Cellular Mobile Terminals operating on IMT-2000, IMT-Advanced, LTE-Advanced Pro, and IMT-2020 (5G NR) radio interface technologies. The specification applies to handheld, portable, and vehicle-mounted equipment, as well as RF interface cards and modems.
The document covers general requirements, safety, electromagnetic compatibility, radio interface performance, emergency communications, and conformance testing.
Mandatory Technical Changes Introduced in the Draft Specification
2G Network Connectivity Disabled in Factory Configuration
Cellular Mobile Terminals must have 2G connectivity disabled by default. Devices must not connect or attempt to connect to 2G networks unless explicitly enabled by the user through deliberate action, such as navigating a settings menu or confirming a prompt.
Emergency Cell Broadcast Functional Requirements
The draft introduces mandatory Emergency Cell Broadcast (CBS) requirements. Cellular Mobile Terminals must:
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Support CBS messages up to 1,395 characters
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Support message presentation in multiple languages
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Display warning notifications without requiring user interaction
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Implement audio attention signals and vibration cadences aligned with FCC Title 47 CFR Part 10
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Allow users to review alerts at a later time
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Ensure alerts take priority over other device functions without pre-empting active voice or data sessions
Lithium Battery Safety Compliance References
Lithium batteries used in Cellular Mobile Terminals must comply with one of the following safety standards:
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UL 1642
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IEC 62133
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IEC 60086-4
Voice-over-LTE Default Enablement Requirements
Cellular Mobile Terminals designed for voice calling must:
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Support Voice-over-LTE (VoLTE) in accordance with 3GPP specifications
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Have VoLTE enabled by default
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Be compatible with VoLTE services provided by all mobile network operators in Singapore
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Support emergency calls over VoLTE
Public Consultation Submission Process and Deadline
Stakeholders may submit written comments to IMDA under the following conditions:
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Submission Deadline: 9 February 2026
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Accepted Formats: Microsoft Word or PDF
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Email Subject Line: Public comments for TS CMT
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Submission Email: Telecoms_Standards@imda.gov.sg
Related Entirety Services
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Regulatory Impact on Market Access and Compliance
Technical Standards: ✅ Yes
Type Approval & Market Access: ✅ Yes
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance: ❌ No
Spectrum Management: ❌ No
