If you are planning to buy or use a mobile phone in Sri Lanka, you need to make sure that it is approved by the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL). The TRCSL is the authority that regulates and monitors the telecommunication industry in the country, and it requires that all mobile phones and devices that are connected to the cellular networks have a valid approval.
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How to check if your mobile phone is TRCSL approved?
There are several ways to check if your mobile phone is TRCSL approved, such as:
• Check the phone box for the TRCSL approved sticker. The sticker should have the TRCSL logo, the approval number, and the QR code. You can scan the QR code with your phone camera or a QR code reader app to verify the approval status.
• Check the phone IMEI number via SMS. The IMEI number is a 15-digit unique number that identifies your mobile phone. You can find it by dialing *#06# on your phone keypad, or by looking inside the phone battery compartment. You can send an SMS to 1909 with the format IMEI (space) 15 digit IMEI number, and you will receive a reply with the approval status.
• Check the TRCSL website for the list of approved phone models. The TRCSL website, www.trc.gov.lk, has a section for approval for mobile phones and devices, where you can find the list of approved phone models and their details. You can search the list by the phone brand, model, or IMEI number.
Why do you need a TRCSL approval for your mobile phone?
The TRCSL approval is necessary for several reasons, such as:
• To ensure the quality and safety of the mobile phones and devices, and to prevent the use of substandard or counterfeit products that could harm the users or the network.
• To protect the local manufacturers and producers of mobile phones and devices, and to support the domestic market and economy.
• To prevent the interference and disruption of the telecommunication services, and to maintain the optimal performance and efficiency of the network.
• To comply with the legal and regulatory requirements, and to avoid any penalties or fines that could be imposed by the TRCSL for using unapproved mobile phones and devices.
What to do if your mobile phone is not TRCSL approved?
If your mobile phone is not TRCSL approved, you have two options:
• Apply for a TRCSL approval for your mobile phone. You can apply for a TRCSL approval for your mobile phone if you are importing or bringing it for personal use, or if you are a bulk importer or a vendor. You will need to fill an application form and submit it to the TRCSL with the required documents and fees. The TRCSL will review your application and issue an approval certificate if your mobile phone meets the standards and criteria.
• Replace your mobile phone with a TRCSL approved one. You can replace your mobile phone with a TRCSL approved one if you do not want to apply for a TRCSL approval, or if your mobile phone does not qualify for an approval. You can buy a TRCSL approved mobile phone from a licensed vendor, who should display the vendor license and the approval sticker in their outlet. You can also check the TRCSL website for the list of approved phone models and their prices.
The TRCSL approval for mobile phones and devices is a mandatory requirement in Sri Lanka, and it is important to check and verify the approval status of your mobile phone before you buy or use it. By doing so, you will ensure the quality and safety of your mobile phone, and you will avoid any legal or regulatory issues that could arise from using an unapproved mobile phone.