India’s major telecom operators—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea (Vi), and BSNL—have launched Caller Name Presentation (CNAP), an Aadhaar-linked service that shows the caller’s verified name on incoming calls. Approved by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), it uses KYC details (often from Aadhaar) to display names from official telecom databases, even for unsaved numbers. This network-level feature fights spam, scams, and fraud without needing third-party apps like Truecaller.
Key Features
- Automatic Name Display: Shows the caller’s legally registered name alongside the number on the recipient’s screen, pulled in real-time from the caller’s operator database.
- No Apps Needed: Works directly through telecom infrastructure, independent of user-installed software.
- Supports Unknown Numbers: Reveals verified identities for any caller, boosting transparency and safety.
Technical Specifications
- Network Focus: Launched first on 4G/5G networks, with plans to expand to others as infrastructure improves.
- Device Requirements: Needs compatible smartphones with updated firmware; older 2G/3G devices may not support it.
- Default Activation: Enabled automatically for subscribers, with no manual setup required.
Rollout and Implementation
- Phased Launch: Active in select states and regions now, with nationwide rollout expected by early to mid-2026.
- Operator-Wide: Jio, Airtel, Vi, and BSNL are deploying it across telecom circles.
User Benefits and Privacy
- Benefits:
- Reduces spam and scam calls by helping users spot suspicious identities.
- Builds trust with clear caller info, cutting reliance on risky third-party apps.
- Enhances overall call security and user confidence.
- Privacy Controls:
- Callers can opt out using Calling Line Identification Restriction (CLIR) to hide their name.
- Strict rules limit KYC data use to caller ID only, with audited access for safety.
This service standardizes verified caller IDs across India, making calls safer and more reliable.