What is the BIS CRS Update for XR Devices?

The BIS CRS update for XR devices is a recent regulatory change under which Extended Reality (XR) devices have been included in the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). This means that products like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) now require mandatory BIS certification in India before they can be sold or imported.

With this update, XR devices are officially recognized as a regulated product category, and businesses must complete the BIS CRS registration for XR devices to ensure compliance.

The update mainly focuses on:

• XR devices added under BIS CRS
• Mandatory certification required before sale or import
• Applicable to AR, VR & MR devices
• Linked with new standard IS/IEC 62368-1:2023

This BIS CRS update for XR devices in India focuses on improving product safety and aligning Indian regulations with global standards. Manufacturers and importers must now understand these requirements and take timely action to avoid compliance issues.

Applicable Standard: IS/IEC 62368-1:2023

As part of the BIS CRS update for XR devices, the applicable safety standard is IS/IEC 62368-1:2023, which covers audio, video, information, and communication technology equipment. This standard replaces the earlier standards and introduces a more advanced, hazard-based safety approach.

With this transition, all manufacturers and importers must ensure that their XR products comply with the requirements of IS IEC 62368-1:2023 BIS to obtain certification and continue operations in India.

Standards Replaced:

• IS 13252 (Part 1):2010
• IS 616:2017

The shift to BIS Standard 62368-1 India reflects a move towards globally aligned safety requirements. It focuses on identifying potential risks and ensuring product safety through proper design, testing, and compliance.

For businesses involved in BIS certification for electronics in India, this update makes it essential to upgrade their products and testing processes according to the new standard.

Implementation Timeline and Deadline

The BIS CRS update for XR devices comes with a clearly defined transition timeline that manufacturers and importers must follow to remain compliant. BIS has allowed a concurrent running period, during which both the old and new standards are permitted.

Key Timeline Details:

• Concurrent running allowed for old and new standards
• Last date of transition: 1 May 2026
• After this date, only IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 will be applicable
• Old standards will no longer be valid

What This Means for Businesses

Businesses dealing with AR VR MR BIS registration must complete their transition to the new standard before the deadline. Any delay in compliance may lead to issues such as certification rejection, product launch delays, or regulatory action.

This BIS CRS update for AR VR devices in India 2026 creates a limited window for companies to upgrade their products, testing, and documentation as per the latest requirements.

BIS Registration Process for XR Devices

To comply with the BIS CRS update for XR devices, manufacturers and importers must follow a structured certification process. Completing the BIS registration process for XR devices in India is mandatory before launching or selling products like AR, VR, and MR devices in the market.

Step-by-Step BIS Registration Process:

• Product Identification: Identify whether your product falls under the XR category and requires BIS certification.
• Testing in BIS-Recognized Lab: Get the product tested as per IS IEC 62368-1:2023 BIS from a BIS-approved laboratory.
• Documentation Preparation:
  • Test reports
  • Product details
  • Manufacturer information
• Online Application Submission: Submit the application through the BIS CRS portal with all required details and documents.
• Grant of Registration: After successful verification, BIS grants the registration, allowing the product to be sold in India.

Important Points to Consider

• Ensure compliance with IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 before testing
• Incorrect or incomplete documentation may delay approval
• Certification is mandatory for BIS certification for VR headsets and other XR devices

Completing the BIS registration process for XR devices on time helps businesses avoid delays and ensures smooth entry into the Indian market.

Official BIS Notification & Guidelines for XR (AR, VR & MR) Devices

The BIS CRS update for XR devices is based on official guidelines issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) following the notification by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). These guidelines provide a clear framework for the implementation of IS/IEC 62368-1:2023 for Extended Reality products in India.