Vodafone Thought (Vi) on Wednesday introduced a strategic partnership with US-based satellite tv for pc expertise firm AST SpaceMobile to introduce direct-to-device satellite tv for pc broadband connectivity in India. With this transfer, the telecommunications supplier goals to broaden broadband-based mobile entry at areas with difficult terrains the place deployment of terrestrial infrastructure is tough. Leveraging the satellite tv for pc expertise firm’s SpaceMobile Satellite tv for pc System, the brand new service will join on to smartphones with out requiring specialised software program, firmware updates, or system assist.
Vi SpaceMobile Satellite tv for pc System Particulars
In a press note, Vi stated that AST SpaceMobile’s space-based mobile broadband ecosystem will broaden its terrestrial connectivity telecom companies to offer voice and video calls, information streaming, and web entry at difficult areas and unconnected areas throughout India.
It’ll allow customers to entry 4G and 5G companies instantly by way of an ecosystem of space-based satellites. Notably, the service isn’t a substitute for mobile companies however will complement present terrestrial networks.
As per Vi, its direct-to-device satellite-based broadband connectivity aligns with the nation’s Digital India initiative. The strategic partnership will see AST SpaceMobile develop, manufacture, and handle the constellation of satellites, whereas the telecom operator will guarantee terrestrial community integration, working spectrum, and market entry.
“As satellite-based cell entry turns into a actuality in India, we’re wanting ahead to ushering in a brand new period of seamless and resilient connectivity”, Avneesh Khosla, Chief Advertising Officer at Vi stated in a press release.
Notably, the SpaceMobile Satellite tv for pc System is a satellite-based cellular broadband network that’s designed for each business and authorities purposes. It makes use of a low-Earth orbit satellite tv for pc constellation to offer companies, enabling customers to entry its community even in distant areas with none modifications to the system. Utilizing this service doesn’t require switching mobile service suppliers. As a substitute, it really works with telecom operators to offer an non-obligatory connectivity choice the place conventional cell-site protection is restricted or not out there.
Along with direct-to-device satellite tv for pc broadband connectivity, Vi and AST SpaceMobile may even collaborate on business tasks for client, enterprise, IoT (Web of Issues), and different sectors.