Explained: What is D2M tech that will allow mobile users to watch videos without internet connection

The central government recently announced that the trials of the home-grown Direct-to-Mobile (D2M) technology, developed by Saankhya Labs and IIT Kanpur, will soon be held in 19 cities. This tech will enable mobile users to stream videos on their smartphones without an active internet connection.
In June last year, IIT-Kanpur released a white paper on D2M Broadcasting in collaboration with Prasar Bharti and Telecommunications Development Society, explaining about the technology. In a letter in August 2023, the ministry of communications listed its use cases, which may include content delivery, education and disseminating information in crisis/ emergency situations.
Here’s an explainer on what the technology is all about, its features, benefits and underlying technologies for the future of media consumption.