Chile Updates Short Range Device Regulation
Chile’s Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (Subtel) published Exempt Resolution No. 966 on May 27, 2026, amending Exempt Resolution No. 1,985 of 2017, which establishes the Technical Standard for Short Range Devices (SRD).
The amendment introduces new provisions for ultra-low-power active implantable medical devices, updates QR code labeling requirements, and modifies procedures for confidential Test Report submissions. Additionally, the changes support technological developments while helping manufacturers and importers simplify administrative processes in Chile.
Key Amendments Under the Chile Short Range Devices Regulation
New Category for Implantable Medical Devices
The amendment adds a new subsection g.4) under Article 1 of Resolution No. 1,985.
Under this new provision, manufacturers may operate ultra-low-power active implantable medical devices in Chile under defined technical parameters. Specifically, these devices must:
- Operate within the 9–315 kHz frequency band
- Maintain a field strength not exceeding 30 dBµA/m, or its equivalent in dBµV/m
- Meet measurements taken at a distance of 10 meters
Moreover, the amendment reflects the growing availability of implantable medical devices in international markets. As a result, Chile now incorporates these technologies into its existing SRD framework.
Updates to QR Code Requirements
Subtel also revised several QR code design and implementation requirements contained in Article 2, numeral 4).
The updated regulation now requires responsible parties to preserve the minimum conditions necessary for proper QR code reading and operation. However, Subtel removed several previous design limitations to provide greater flexibility.
For example:
- Responsible parties may now determine the QR code size freely
- The regulation still recommends compliance with ISO/IEC 18004 specifications
- The amendment replaces the wording “No debe” (“Must not”) in literal c) with “Podrá” (“May”)
- The regulation also replaces references to “square” QR code elements with the term “free choice”
Consequently, manufacturers and importers now have greater flexibility when implementing QR codes while still maintaining readability and functionality requirements.
Alternative Submission Method for Confidential Test Reports
Subtel additionally introduced a new alternative procedure for handling confidential Test Reports.
Under the revised Article 2, numeral 3), responsible parties may now submit confidential versions of Test Reports through Subtel’s Virtual Office. Furthermore, they must notify the designated institutional email address with:
- The corresponding submission number
- Equipment references identifying the device
According to the resolution, this change facilitates the review of confidential or reserved information by Subtel officials. At the same time, the new process supports a more efficient administrative review procedure.
Compliance Considerations for Manufacturers
The Chile Short Range Devices amendment introduces regulatory changes that may affect manufacturers and importers seeking market access for applicable wireless and medical devices.
Organizations should review:
- Frequency compliance requirements for implantable medical devices
- Existing QR code labeling practices
- Internal procedures for confidential documentation submissions
For companies managing product approvals and conformity assessment activities across multiple jurisdictions, Entirety’s Product Certification Service may support ongoing compliance efforts.
Impact Assessment
- Technical Standards? ✅ Yes
- Type Approval & Market Access? ✅ Yes
- Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ✅ Yes
- Spectrum Management? ✅ Yes
