Smartphones and Tablets to Get 5-Star Ratings in India: In a major push towards energy efficiency and sustainability, the Indian government has announced that smartphones and tablets sold in India will soon come with 5-star energy ratings.
This move, modeled after the Bureau of Energy Efficiency’s (BEE) successful labeling program for appliances, aims to guide consumers in making informed, eco-conscious purchases.
From refrigerators to air conditioners, Indian homes already use star labels to gauge energy usage. Now, with the smartphone and tablet market booming—over 150 million smartphones sold annually in India, according to Counterpoint Research—the government is extending this energy-saving initiative to handheld devices.
Smartphones and Tablets to Get 5-Star Ratings in India
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Policy Introduction | Star rating system for smartphones and tablets by BEE |
| Expected Rollout | Likely within 2025, pending stakeholder consultations |
| Rating Scale | 1 to 5 stars based on energy efficiency |
| Additional Measure | Repairability Index under development |
| Environmental Impact | Reduced carbon footprint, less e-waste |
| Relevant Authority | Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) |
India’s decision to extend the 5-star rating system to smartphones and tablets marks a bold step toward sustainability and smart consumer choices. By introducing energy efficiency labels and repairability indices, the government is making it easier for buyers to pick devices that are better for their wallets and the planet.
As the policy shapes up over the coming months, it offers a unique opportunity for tech brands, professionals, and consumers to align with India’s environmental goals while embracing next-generation electronics.
Why This Matters: Understanding the Energy Labeling Move
The new rule aims to replicate the success of the BEE Star Labeling Program used for appliances like TVs, fans, and washing machines. By assigning star ratings (1 to 5) based on energy usage during charging and idle times, consumers will be better equipped to choose devices that save electricity and reduce long-term costs.
This is particularly important in India, where mobile phone usage is widespread across all demographics, and power consumption by chargers and devices collectively contributes to a significant energy load.
What Will the Ratings Measure?
The ratings will reflect:
- Energy consumption during charging
- Battery efficiency
- Power drain in standby mode
- Software optimization for power use
Devices with better battery management and efficient charging cycles will naturally score higher.
A Repairability Index Is Also Coming
In addition to energy ratings, the government is also developing a Repairability Index. Much like France’s well-known model, this index will measure how easy it is to repair a device. A higher score means a product is:
- Easier to disassemble
- Comes with affordable spare parts
- Supported with proper documentation for repairs
This push aligns with India’s circular economy goals by aiming to reduce electronic waste (e-waste), which currently stands at over 1 million tonnes per year according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Why Professionals Should Pay Attention
For manufacturers and retailers, this move will:
- Require transparency in product design
- Demand updates to product packaging
- Possibly influence consumer buying decisions
It also opens up a business opportunity in repair services and parts supply.
How Will the Star Rating Be Determined?
Step 1: Device Testing
Manufacturers will need to submit products to BEE-approved labs for testing against specific parameters such as:
- Power input during a full charge
- Battery leakage over time
- Energy drawn in airplane or standby mode
Step 2: Scoring Mechanism
Points will be assigned for each metric, with higher overall efficiency equating to a higher star rating.
Step 3: Labeling
Once a device is certified, it must prominently display the star label on:
- Product packaging
- Online listings
- User manuals
Real-World Examples to Help You Understand
Let’s break it down with a few scenarios:
Example 1: Two phones, one with a high-end chipset optimized for energy use and another with older hardware.
- The modern phone may score 5 stars due to low power consumption and long standby times.
- The older phone might get 2 or 3 stars due to energy inefficiencies.
Example 2: Tablets from different brands.
- Brand A uses a USB-C charger and has advanced battery optimization.
- Brand B uses an older port and drains battery quickly.
- Brand A likely gets a better rating and longer battery life for users.
How This Affects You
For Consumers:
- Smarter buying choices: Like picking a fridge with 5 stars, users can now pick phones that save power.
- Lower electricity bills over time.
- More sustainable usage, helping the environment.
For Parents and Kids:
- Even kids using tablets for online classes will benefit from safer, energy-efficient devices.
For Tech Reviewers and Industry Experts:
- Reviews will now include energy efficiency scores, adding a new layer to comparison metrics.
India’s Push for Common Chargers
To further reduce e-waste, the government is also pushing for USB Type-C as a common charging standard across devices by June 2025. This mirrors the European Union’s mandate and is expected to cut down on charger waste and simplify life for users.
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FAQs About Smartphones and Tablets to Get 5-Star Ratings in India
What is the BEE Star Label?
The BEE (Bureau of Energy Efficiency) Star Label is a rating system that helps consumers choose energy-efficient appliances, and now smartphones and tablets.
Will this increase phone prices?
Possibly slightly for premium ratings, as brands may invest more in energy-efficient tech, but long-term energy savings offset the cost.
When will this rule come into effect?
Expected to roll out by late 2025, after final consultations with stakeholders.
What is the Repairability Index?
An upcoming metric to show how easy it is to repair a product. High scores mean longer-lasting devices and less waste.
Will existing phones be rated?
No. The rule will apply to new models released after the rollout date.
