Vodafone Idea Teams Up with AST SpaceMobile for Better Mobile Coverage
Bringing Connectivity to All Corners of India
Vodafone Idea has joined forces with AST SpaceMobile. Together, they aim to provide satellite-based mobile services to smartphones all over India. You won’t need any special hardware or apps for this.
What This Partnership Means
- Better coverage in far-off areas of India
- Combining space-based tech with Vi’s network
- Launch date to be announced later
Game-Changing Technology
AST SpaceMobile is creating the first space-based cellular broadband network. This network will work with regular smartphones. The company has already made successful test calls with this tech.
Strong Backing
Big names in the telecom world support AST SpaceMobile. These include AT&T, Verizon, Google, and Vodafone Plc. The company has deals with over 45 mobile network operators worldwide.
How It Will Work
AST SpaceMobile will build and run the satellite network. Vodafone Idea will manage spectrum use, ground integration, and market access in India. This teamwork will let Vi offer voice, video, and data services even where there are no towers.
Looking Ahead
The partners will also look into services for consumers, businesses, and IoT uses. This teamwork aims to remove connectivity barriers and widen coverage across India.
Competition and Rules
SpaceX, which runs the Starlink satellite internet service, is also working on direct-to-smartphone connectivity. Starlink has just got the go-ahead to offer services in India. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) suggests giving out spectrum for satellite communication through an administrative route.
