3-Line Summary

BIS Certification for Smart Speakers in India is mandatory under IS 616:2017.

 Smart speaker brands must obtain CRS certification before sale.

 This guide explains requirements, process, and compliance for BIS certification.

Introduction: Why a US Tech Giant Faced Delays in India

A multinational smart speaker company was getting ready to introduce its product in India during the Diwali holiday in 2021. Shipments sat idle in warehouses while advertising was scheduled and distribution partners were prepared.The reason? The company had not secured BIS certification for smart speakers under IS 616:2017.

This delay cost crores in lost revenue. More importantly, it taught the brand that regulatory compliance in India is not optional—it’s the entry ticket to the market.

At Diligence Certification, we’ve seen both startups and Fortune 500 companies face similar hurdles. The good news: with the right approach, CRS certification can be completed smoothly without affecting product launches.

What is Smart Speaker BIS Certification?

In India, the national organization in charge of product quality and safety is the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). BIS certification guarantees that smart speakers adhere to IS 616:2017, which covers safety requirements for electronic devices such as audio and video.

Importing, selling, or distributing any smart speaker without CRS certification is required.

Applies To: All brands, whether manufacturing in India or importing.

Covers: Electrical safety, EMI/EMC, and labeling.

In short, BIS certification isn’t just paperwork. It’s a quality guarantee that protects consumers and builds trust for brands.

Why Smart Speakers Need IS 616:2017 Compliance

Smart speakers are no longer just music devices. They control lights, answer questions, and even connect with home appliances. That means:

They run continuously on power.

They connect to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cloud services.

They interact with users’ personal data.

According to IS 616:2017, these devices won't overheat, shock people, or release radiation. Think of it like an electronic seatbelt. When something goes wrong, it can save lives, even though you might not notice it every day.

BIS Certification Process for Smart Speakers in India

The process under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS) is structured, but each step has nuances.This is a roadmap that has been tested by the client:

Step 1: Determine the Standard

• Smart speakers fall under IS 616:2017.

• The product model and variants must be clearly defined.

Step 2: Appoint an Authorised Indian Representative (AIR)

• Mandatory for foreign brands.

• The AIR is legally responsible for compliance.

Step 3: Product Testing in BIS Recognised Lab

• Safety, power, and EMC tests.

• Reports must match BIS requirements exactly. Even a small deviation can cause rejection.

Step 4: Online Application Submission

• Upload documents: test reports, product details, authorization letters.

• Pay BIS fees.

Step 5: BIS Review & Grant of Registration

• BIS scrutinises documents.

• Certificate granted with unique R-number.

Step 6: Marking & Market Launch

• The product must carry the BIS logo + R-number.

• Only then can sales and imports begin.

👉 For detailed compliance, see Diligence Certifications CRS Services.

Common Challenges Brands Face

• Multiple Models, One Report Issue

• A client with three variants of smart speakers tried to use one test report. BIS rejected it. Each model required separate testing.

• Firmware Updates During Certification

• A startup upgraded its software mid-process. BIS asked for retesting. Lesson: freeze firmware until certification is complete.

• Delays Due to Missing AIR

• A US brand shipped products without appointing an AIR. Customs seized the consignment.

• Tip: Certification is not only technical—it’s strategic. Plan at least 6–8 weeks before launch.

The common theme: compliance-first strategy equals market success.

• Documentation Required for BIS Certification

• Application form (CRS portal)

• Test reports from BIS recognised lab

• Manufacturer’s business license

AIR authorization (for foreign brands)

Trademark certificate

📌 Pro Tip: Many applications get rejected due to mismatched test reports and product labels. Ensure consistency before submission.

Cost & Timeline for CRS Certification

Cost: ₹1.5–2.5 lakhs (including testing + BIS fees + consultancy)

Timeline: 6–8 weeks, contingent on BIS scrutiny and test lab load.

Renewal: Every two years.

It is less expensive to invest in certification than to risk fines, seizures by customs, or harm to one's reputation.

External Authority Reference

For official guidelines, visit :- https://www.diligencecertification.com/certification-for-smart-speakers/

FAQs on BIS Certification for Smart Speakers

Q1. Is BIS certification mandatory for all smart speakers in India?

Yes. Whether imported or locally made, all smart speakers must comply with IS 616:2017 under CRS certification.Retailers and customs will not permit sales without this.

Q2. What is the duration required for BIS certification?

6–8 weeks on average. Delays usually happen due to incorrect documentation or testing errors. Planning early helps avoid market-entry issues.

Q3. Can one BIS certificate cover multiple models?

No. Each model/variant must be tested separately, unless BIS specifically approves family certification. Treat each model as unique.

Q4.What would happen if I sold smart speakers without having a BIS certification?

The product might be seized, the company might be fined, and the reputation of the brand might suffer. Noncompliance has financial and legal ramifications in India.

Q5. How often is it necessary to renew a BIS certification?

Every two years. Renewal requires updated documents but not always full retesting, unless the product design changes.

In summary, compliance serves as your launching pad.

• One of the IoT categories that is growing the fastest in India is smart speakers. However, if smart speakers are not BIS certified under IS 616:2017, your brand cannot legally enter the market.

• Consider certification as a trust signal that informs Indian customers that your product is safe and dependable, rather than as a barrier.

• Diligence Certifications simplifies the CRS certification procedure for companies of all sizes, from start-ups to multinational behemoths.

Why Choose Diligence Certifications?

Because we make BIS certification simple, fast, and stress-free. Our team manages everything—from lab testing to BIS approval—while giving you clear updates at every step. With proven experience handling smart speaker certifications for both startups and global brands, we ensure faster approvals, zero rejections, and smooth market entry in India.

👉 Are you prepared to introduce in India? For complete BIS certification assistance, get in touch with us right now :- https://www.diligencecertification.com/