Vodafone Idea (Vi) has established a strategic alliance with AST SpaceMobile, a pioneer in space-based cellular broadband. This partnership seeks to enhance mobile connectivity in India’s extensive and presently unconnected areas through cutting-edge satellite technology.
Under the terms of the partnership, AST SpaceMobile will take charge of developing, manufacturing, and managing the sophisticated satellite constellation that will power this initiative. Concurrently, Vi will play a crucial role in overseeing the terrestrial network integration, managing the necessary operating spectrum, and ensuring market access across India.
The core of this collaboration lies in AST SpaceMobile’s groundbreaking space-based cellular technology. This innovation allows for direct connectivity to standard smartphones, eliminating the need for specialized software or device modifications. This means that users in remote and challenging terrains, where deploying traditional terrestrial mobile infrastructure is difficult and costly, will soon be able to access reliable mobile broadband directly from their existing devices.
“Vi has always been committed to leveraging technology to connect every Indian and we see satellite communication as a complement to terrestrial connectivity. As satellite-based mobile access becomes a reality in India, we are looking forward to ushering in a new era of seamless and resilient connectivity” said Avneesh Khosla, Chief Marketing Officer, Vi.
“India, with its vast and dynamic telecom market, is the ideal place to demonstrate how our space-based cellular broadband can seamlessly complement terrestrial networks” said Chris Ivory, Chief Commercial Officer, AST SpaceMobile, “We are not just expanding coverage; we are breaking down barriers to connectivity, enabling everyday smartphones to access 4G and 5G directly from space. Together with Vodafone Idea, we are excited to unlock new possibilities for emergency response, disaster management, agriculture, remote learning, and countless other applications that will benefit from truly ubiquitous mobile broadband.”
This pioneering partnership is poised to significantly complement Vi’s existing terrestrial network infrastructure, extending its reach into areas previously deemed unfeasible. Furthermore, the initiative aligns seamlessly with the Digital India program’s broader objectives to expand broadband cellular access nationwide, fostering greater digital inclusion and economic growth in underserved communities.
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