No screen guard needed—the screen won't break! The government has introduced a rule to this effect..

The central government has brought smartphone screen protectors under the ambit of mandatory BIS certification. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology issued a notification on September 21, 2026, amending the 'Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirement of Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021'. Screen protectors have now been added to the schedule as item number 66. They must comply with the Indian Standard IS 19348:2025 (Glass Screen Protector – Specification).

These rules will come into effect on April 1, 2027. This provides manufacturers and importers with time to align their products with quality standards. The market is currently flooded with cheap and substandard protectors. The new rule will enable customers to purchase smartphone screen protectors that offer better safety and quality. It will also boost domestic manufacturing. This move is significant for the 'Make in India' initiative and for strengthening quality control.

What is the new rule?
According to the notification, smartphone screen protectors now fall under the mandatory registration scheme. Compliance with the IS 19348:2025 standard is mandatory for the product. This standard covers specifications such as thickness, dimensions, strength, adhesive layer, anti-shatter film, oleophobic coating, anti-glare properties, and privacy films for glass screen protectors. It defines not just the fit, but also the glass quality and testing standards.

When will the rule come into effect?

The rule will be effective from April 1, 2027. There is a transition period of approximately seven months between September 2026 and April 2027. During this time, manufacturers and importers can complete the registration process by getting their products tested at BIS-recognized laboratories.

How will it impact buyers?

Consumers will have a greater assurance of obtaining high-quality screen protectors. The influx of substandard and unbranded imported goods may decrease. While this could lead to a slight rise in prices and affect availability, it will ensure the availability of safer and more durable products in the long run. Currently, the majority of market supply comes from imports and the unorganized sector.

What does this mean for manufacturers and importers?
They will be required to align their products with Indian standards. Sales without BIS certification will become illegal after April 1, 2027. This move will boost domestic production and reduce reliance on imports. Some companies are already planning to expand their manufacturing capacity.

Why is this step necessary?
Smartphone displays are expensive and delicate components. Substandard protectors can easily break or damage the display itself. The new standard will ensure greater safety for phone screens. This is significant news for the country's electronics accessories market.

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