Elon Musk's Starlink faces new rival as Vi joins AST SpaceMobile, smartphone satcom service announced, launch timeline under wraps
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Vodafone Idea on Wednesday announced a strategic partnership with US-based satellite communications company AST SpaceMobile to deliver satellite-based mobile services directly to smartphones across India, without the need for specialised hardware or apps.
The telecom operator said the tie-up aims to expand coverage in India's unconnected regions by integrating AST SpaceMobile's space-based cellular technology with Vi's terrestrial telecom network.
'Vi and AST SpaceMobile Inc. announced a strategic partnership to expand mobile connectivity across India's unconnected regions,' Vodafone Idea said in a statement. The telco, however, did not disclose a specific launch date for the service, PTI reported.
A Vi spokesperson said the company would 'inform about material developments in due course of time.'
AST SpaceMobile, a competitor to Elon Musk's SpaceX, claims to be building the world's first space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard smartphones, and has previously conducted test calls using the technology. In 2023, the firm announced it had completed the first-ever space-based 4G call to an unmodified mobile phone, followed by a 10 Mbps download test and a 5G voice call in September.
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The US-based company is backed by major global telecom firms including AT&T, Verizon, Google, and Vodafone Plc, and has agreements with more than 45 mobile network operators worldwide.
'This partnership will bring together Vi's robust national network with AST SpaceMobile's revolutionary technology, which connects directly to everyday smartphones without specialised software or device support,' the statement said.
Under the arrangement, AST will develop and operate the satellite constellation, while Vodafone Idea will handle spectrum use, terrestrial integration, and market access in India.
'This space-based ecosystem will enable Vi to extend voice, video, and data streaming services even in areas without tower connectivity,' the company added.
Chris Ivory, Chief Commercial Officer at AST SpaceMobile, said India's telecom landscape offers an ideal platform to showcase how satellite-based cellular broadband can supplement traditional infrastructure.
'We are not just expanding coverage; we are breaking down barriers to connectivity,' he said.
The partnership will also explore commercial offerings for consumer, enterprise, and IoT applications.
SpaceX, which operates the Starlink satellite internet service, is also pursuing direct-to-smartphone connectivity and has signed agreements with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel to provide satellite internet in India.
Earlier this month, Starlink received telecom department approval to offer services in the country.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) has recommended that spectrum for satellite communication be allocated through an administrative route, a position opposed by telecom operators. The Telecommunications Act 2023 allows for spectrum allocation for point-to-point satcom services via fixed fees.
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