BSNL launches India’s first direct satellite-to-device service for seamless connectivity even in the remotest areas; see details
Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has achieved a new milestone in the telecom sector by launching the country’s first satellite-to-device service. Launched in collaboration with California-based Viasat, the service promises to provide seamless connectivity to the most remote areas of India. The service was announced by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of India on X (earlier Twitter).
Demonstration at India Mobile Congress 2024
The service was first demonstrated at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) in October 2024. During this, the capability of satellite-based two-way messaging and emergency SOS messaging was shown. During the demonstration, a normal Android smartphone was used, with non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity enabled. The messages were sent to Viasat’s geostationary L-band satellite located about 36,000 km above the Earth.
How Does Satellite-to-Device Technology Work?
This service of BSNL is based on direct-to-device connectivity. This cutting-edge technology allows smartphones, smartwatches, industrial equipment and vehicles to connect directly to ground-based and satellite networks. The system complies with global mobile standards such as 3GPP Release 17, which are increasingly being adopted by satellite operators, telecom companies and handset manufacturers.
BSNL launches India’s 1st Satellite-to-Device service!
— DoT India (@DoT_India) November 13, 2024
Seamless connectivity now reaches India’s remotest corners. pic.twitter.com/diNKjaivFo
Key Features of BSNL’s service
Emergency communication: Users can make emergency calls and send SOS messages even without a cellular or Wi-Fi network.
UPI payments: The service enables financial transactions in remote areas.
Target users: The service will be particularly beneficial for trekkers, rural families and people living in remote areas.
Expansion of Satellite Connectivity
BSNL’s partnership with ViaSat is a significant step towards promoting the use of satellite technology. ViaSat has already focused on expanding satellite services for consumer and IoT devices, and this collaboration with BSNL marks a significant advancement in India’s space-tech sector.
Challenges and Future Announcements
While the prospects of this service are encouraging, BSNL has not yet shared the following important details such as:
- Service availability in specific areas.
- Service charges or additional cost for existing customers.
- Support for regular calls and SMS apart from emergency use.
All these details will be announced before the service is launched for public use.
The Future of Connectivity in India
BSNL’s satellite-to-device service is a revolutionary change in the field of telecommunications, which was till now restricted to only military and government use in India. This service offers a new way to connect people in remote areas of India like Spiti Valley or rural villages of Rajasthan.
In this journey of taking India towards a digitally inclusive future, this initiative of BSNL promises to connect every part of the country to the mainstream.
