2026 India BIS Update Barometer: Countdown to Mandatory Version Replacement for XR and Electronic Products

The regulatory intensity of electronic products in the Indian market is reaching an unprecedented height. According to the latest instructions from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), electronic and information technology products are undergoing a comprehensive transition from the old standards (IS 13252 / IS 616) to IS/IEC 62368-1:2023.

I. Core Node: The "Ultimatum" on May 1, 2026

CCJC reminds all manufacturers that the following time points directly determine whether your products can be cleared smoothly:

• The mandatory period for XR devices: For AR/VR/MR (Extended Reality) devices, May 1, 2026 is the deadline for adopting the new standard.
• The parallel period ends: After this date, BIS laboratories will no longer accept test applications for the old version of the standard.
• QR code enforcement: Starting from 2026, all products registered with CRS must integrate a traceable QR code on their labels.

Ii. Three Core Changes in the BIS Update Standard

1. Introduce the new standard IS/IEC 62368-1:2023

This standard has completely abolished the old listing model and instead adopted HBSE (Hazard Based Safety Engineering). This means that the product requires more rigorous compliance evidence in terms of circuit protection, flame retardancy of the casing and energy classification. Chengce Testing can assist you in conducting an initial assessment to ensure that the prototype passes the local laboratory tests in India at one go.

2. Expand the scope of the mandatory directory

In 2026, 12 new types of products, including smart wearable devices and specific industrial hand tools, were added to the compulsory certification directory. Uncertified products will face the risk of being detained or directly destroyed at Indian customs.

3. The AIR (authorized Indian representative) review has been tightened

The BIS 2026 regulation has strengthened the regular review of AIR qualifications. CCJC has long-term cooperation with many experienced local Indian institutions and can provide legal and stable AIR guarantee services for Chinese enterprises, ensuring the long-term validity of the certificates.

Iii. Compliance Solutions of CCJC Testing

In the face of the ever-changing policies in India, Chengce Testing provides full-chain support

• Prototype pre-inspection: Complete the pre-test in domestic laboratories to avoid high international shipping costs and the cost of repeated tests in India.
• Report transfer: Assist in applying for the transfer of CB reports to BIS reports in India to shorten the certification cycle.
• Label design: Guide enterprises to design compliant labels containing R-Numbers and QR codes in accordance with the latest requirements of 2026.