KKN Gurugram Desk | Jio, Airtel, and Vi (Vodafone Idea) are soon launching a new feature for mobile users in India called New Caller Name Presentation (CNAP). This feature will allow mobile users to see the name of an unknown caller without the need for third-party apps. Until now, this service was provided by apps like Truecaller. According to reports, the telecom companies have partnered with certain vendors who will provide the necessary servers and software to implement the CNAP feature.

Key Highlights:

• Jio, Airtel, and Vi to introduce CNAP, a new feature for caller identification.

• CNAP will allow users to see the verified name of unknown callers directly, without relying on third-party apps like Truecaller.

• Telecom operators have partnered with companies like HP, Dell, Ericsson, and Nokia for CNAP implementation.

• The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had recommended CNAP back in February 2024.

What is CNAP?

CNAP, or New Caller Name Presentation, is essentially a supplementary service aimed at improving caller identification. With this feature, when an unknown number calls a user, the mobile display will show the verified name along with the phone number. CNAP will ensure that users see the name registered on the SIM card, thus eliminating the need for third-party apps that have traditionally been used for caller identification.

The service will provide a simple and convenient way for users to verify who is calling, directly from their mobile screen. This feature is expected to reduce the reliance on apps like Truecaller and increase user confidence when answering calls from unknown numbers.

How Does CNAP Work?

Under the CNAP service, if a user receives a call from an unknown number, the mobile device will display the verified name of the caller in addition to the phone number. This means that if the caller’s number is associated with a specific name registered with the telecom operator, the name will be shown alongside the number. The name displayed will be the one associated with the SIM card used by the caller.

This feature is a significant improvement in ensuring transparency and reducing the uncertainty associated with unknown calls. It is expected to make it easier for users to identify who is calling, helping to reduce missed important calls and enhancing the overall calling experience.

TRAI’s Recommendation and Government’s Role

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had initially recommended the implementation of CNAP in February 2024. According to the recommendations, CNAP would be rolled out gradually across the country. TRAI’s goal is to leverage this feature to control spam calls and scam calls, which have become a growing problem for mobile users in India.

TRAI’s move to introduce CNAP is a step toward reducing the number of unwanted calls and improving overall user experience. This recommendation aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to create a more transparent and user-friendly telecom environment in the country.

Additionally, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) had also directed telecom operators to implement CNAP as soon as possible. The primary aim is to curb the growing menace of spam and scam calls, which are not only inconvenient but also pose security risks for users.

Mobile Manufacturers Already Onboard

In addition to the telecom operators, mobile manufacturers in India have already started integrating the CNAP feature into their devices. In 2022, TRAI had issued an order mandating that mobile manufacturers include the CNAP feature in their devices. Following this, several smartphone manufacturers, including major players like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Realme, have started rolling out the CNAP feature in their new models.

This move from mobile manufacturers is expected to complement the telecom operators’ efforts to implement CNAP and create a more seamless experience for mobile users across the country.

Impact on Apps Like Truecaller

Many mobile users currently rely on apps like Truecaller to identify callers from unknown numbers. Truecaller has been a go-to app for millions of Android and iOS users to identify spam calls, block unwanted callers, and even search for unknown numbers. With the introduction of CNAP, users will now have the ability to see the verified name of unknown callers directly on their device, reducing the reliance on third-party apps for basic caller identification.

While Truecaller and similar apps have been extremely popular, CNAP’s direct integration into the telecom network will likely simplify the process and make it more convenient for users. However, apps like Truecaller may still continue to offer additional features, such as blocking spam calls and providing more detailed caller information.

Why CNAP is Important for Indian Users

India has seen an alarming increase in the number of spam and scam calls in recent years. These calls often come from unknown numbers, and without proper identification, users can fall prey to fraud. With CNAP, users will be able to see the name of the caller, which can help them determine whether the call is legitimate or not. This is particularly important in a country like India, where fraud calls targeting users have been on the rise.

By implementing CNAP, the telecom operators aim to reduce the number of unwanted and fraudulent calls, improving the overall safety and security of mobile users. The feature is expected to bring peace of mind to users who are often hesitant to answer calls from unknown numbers due to concerns about spam or fraud.

What Lies Ahead for CNAP in India?

The implementation of CNAP is still in its early stages, and telecom companies like Jio, Airtel, and Vi are working closely with vendors to deploy the necessary infrastructure. Telecom giants have partnered with vendors such as HP, Dell, Ericsson, and Nokia to provide the required servers and software for the feature.

As telecom operators roll out CNAP, it is expected to be available for a majority of mobile users across India in the coming months. The service is expected to be a significant step in improving user experience by addressing issues like spam calls and enhancing caller identification directly through the telecom network.

The introduction of the New Caller Name Presentation (CNAP) feature by Jio, Airtel, and Vi marks a major shift in how caller identification will work in India. With CNAP, users will no longer need third-party apps like Truecaller to see the names of unknown callers. This feature is expected to reduce spam and scam calls, offering a more seamless and secure experience for Indian mobile users.

As telecom operators continue to work on implementing this feature, users can look forward to a more transparent and efficient way to identify incoming calls. CNAP promises to be a game-changer in improving the overall mobile experience, reducing unwanted disturbances, and ensuring that users have a safer, more convenient way to communicate.