The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), through its Registration Department, has issued a new guidance dated 13 August 2026 on the classification of Wearable Glasses under the Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS). The guidance clarifies how manufacturers and importers should classify and apply for BIS registration for different types of wearable glasses covered under the Electronics and Information Technology Goods (Requirement of Compulsory Registration) Order, 2021.
The update specifically covers Audio Glasses, Smart Glasses, AR Glasses, and MR Glasses, along with their applicable product categories, subcategories, and product descriptions. This classification is important for applicants because selecting the correct product category and product name is a key part of submitting a BIS CRS application. The guidance is intended to provide greater clarity and consistency in the registration of emerging wearable technology products in India.
BIS CRS Classification for Audio, Smart, AR and MR Glasses
In accordance with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) Compulsory Registration Scheme (CRS), AR, VR, and MR devices, including smart and audio glasses.
- Audio Glasses: Fall under Wireless Earphones and Headphones. Audio glasses feature wireless connectivity, speakers, a microphone, audio calling, music playback, and AI-based voice assistance.
- Smart Glasses Photography: Fall under Digital Camera if the glasses include a camera that takes photographs alone and the features of Audio Glasses.
- Smart Glasses Photography & Video: Fall under Video Camera if the glasses include a camera that takes photographs as well as video recordings, and include Audio Glasses features.
- AR Glasses: Fall under Extended Reality Products. AR glasses have all the features of Smart Glasses along with overlay displays through lenses.
- MR Glasses: Fall under Extended Reality Products and offer mixed-reality features, in which digital content can interact with or integrate into the wearer's real world.
- Right Product Classification: Manufacturers and importers must choose the correct product category and name based on the glasses' features and functionalities.
Wearable Glasses – Product Categories and Sub-Categories
Below you can go through the list of products under wearable glasses:
|
S. No. |
Product Category |
Sub-category |
Product Name |
Product Description |
|
1 |
Wireless Earphones and Headphones |
Audio Glasses |
Audio Glasses |
Bluetooth or other wireless connectivity; microphone and speaker; audio calling and music playback; and similar functionalities, including an AI-based voice assistant. |
|
2 |
Digital Camera |
Smart Glasses |
Smart Glasses |
Features of Audio Glasses (with or without such features), along with a camera capable of capturing photographs only. |
|
3 |
Video Camera |
Smart Glasses |
Smart Glasses |
Features of Audio Glasses (with or without such features), along with a camera capable of capturing both photographs and videos. |
|
4 |
Extended Reality Products (Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality, etc.) |
AR Glasses |
AR Glasses |
Features of Smart Glasses (with or without such features), along with an overlay display visible through the lenses. |
|
5 |
Extended Reality Products (Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Mixed Reality, etc.) |
MR Glasses |
MR Glasses |
Features of Smart Glasses with mixed-reality capabilities, including an interactive display and digital content integrated with the user's physical environment. |
Importance of Correct Product Classification Under BIS CRS
Product Classification is a crucial step in registering your XR/Wearables for BIS CRS Registration. BIS has clearly told applicants that they need to register under the right product category, sub-category and product name.
- Right Test Standard: Each Product Category has its own IS Code. Any error in product classification means that you will test the wrong parameters.
- Customs Clearance: Customs and port officials will block shipments that don’t match your description and CRS code.
- No Rejections: An error in the filing means that your application will not be accepted.
- Legal Protection: Proper classification protects you from heavy penalties and seizure of products for violating the law.
Conclusion
Classification of Product Categories under Compulsory Registration Scheme, BIS, dated 13th August 2026, gives a critical classification scheme for manufacturers and importers for Extended Reality and Wearable Products in India. As regards the Extended Reality Products, BIS has particularly classified AR Glasses, Other AR Devices, VR Headsets, MR Glasses, and Other MR Devices into sub-categories. Therefore, manufacturers and importers who plan to market any AR, VR, MR, or other wearables in India must check their specifications and BIS categorisation before their CRS application.
