Government's major decision on low-quality screen guards: Here's what changes for users

The government has taken a significant step regarding low-quality screen guards; screen protectors will now fall under the purview of BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) regulations. Find out how these new rules will impact mobile users.

Your smartphone screen guard will now be ISI-certified. Through a gazette notification, the government has classified screen protectors as products requiring BIS certification. After purchasing a mobile phone, most people immediately install a screen guard or tempered glass. The reason is simple: to prevent the screen from shattering if the phone drops and to avoid scratches during daily use. Now, the government has introduced new regulations for these screen guards.

The government has mandated BIS registration for smartphone screen protectors, meaning screen guards sold in the market will have to adhere to specific quality standards.

Why did the government feel the need to regulate screen guards?

You can find screen guards in the market ranging from ₹20–30 to several hundred rupees. While many products look alike, their quality varies significantly. Some break easily, others scratch quickly, and some do not fit the mobile screen properly. Consequently, the government is now implementing defined quality standards for this product.

What does the new rule entail?

Smartphone screen protectors have now been added to the list of products requiring mandatory registration. The standard set for screen protectors is IS 19348:2025, titled "Glass Screen Protector Specification." This rule will not come into effect immediately; the government has decided to implement it starting April 1, 2027. This gives companies and manufacturers time to align their products with the new standards. Thereafter, companies manufacturing and selling screen guards must comply with the prescribed regulations.

How will this affect the common consumer?

The biggest change for you will be greater assurance regarding quality when purchasing a screen guard. The implementation of prescribed standards for such products sold in the market could help curb the sale of low-quality goods.

However, this does not necessarily mean that the price of every screen guard will rise. The actual impact will become clear only after companies comply and the regulations are enforced in the market. Several electronic products—such as mobile chargers, power banks, and laptop adapters—are already subject to mandatory BIS registration. Now, mobile screen guards have also been added to this list.