SpaceX Direct-to-Smartphone Service Greenlit But India Already Has It!

Elon Musk knows how to stay in the news. The world’s richest man is currently a hot topic in India because of his satellite communication venture, Starlink, which is poised to enter the Indian market and compete with telecom giants like Airtel and Jio.

Musk's Starlink has accepted the government's data localisation and security requirements, hinting at a possible launch of the satellite-based service in India.

Starlink sends its satellites into space via SpaceX, Musk’s aerospace company, which has received FCC approval for its direct-to-smartphone satellite service.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved SpaceX to use its Starlink satellite network for direct-to-smartphone service. This approval will allow users to get smartphone connectivity in areas with no coverage.

The FCC has granted SpaceX’s request with one condition: it must use T-Mobile’s frequencies on up to 7,500 second-generation (Gen2) Starlink satellites without interfering with other networks.

For those who are confused, here’s our detailed guide on direct-to-smartphone satellite service.

What is a Direct-to-Smartphone satellite service?

Direct-to-smartphone satellite service is designed to connect regular smartphones directly to satellites without the need for traditional cell towers.

Unlike mobile services that rely on a network of ground-based towers, this technology uses satellites equipped with advanced antennas and signal processing capabilities to provide connectivity in remote areas.

This means users can connect to satellites directly using their current smartphones without needing additional hardware. While initial services focus on basic functionalities like SMS, future upgrades could enable voice calls and high-speed data.

How does it work?

The direct-to-smartphone service relies on satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) to ensure low latency and sufficient bandwidth. These satellites communicate with devices on the ground via specially designed payloads that replicate the functions of a terrestrial cell tower. The satellites then relay the signal back to Earth-based infrastructure connected to the internet or cellular networks.

For example, SpaceX’s Gen2 Starlink satellites feature payloads specifically designed for this purpose. Of the 2,600 satellites currently in the Gen2 constellation, around 320 are equipped to support direct-to-smartphone communications.

Will it impact India?

Since Starlink is expected to arrive soon in India, we can anticipate its implementation in the country as well.

India is a place where connectivity in remote and rural areas remains a challenge. The entry of this technology may come as a game-changer, especially in remote areas where it is hard and expensive to deploy cell towers. 

However, for Elon Musk, India’s regulatory hurdles remain a challenge. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) would need to adjust spectrum policies to accommodate this new technology. Additionally, the technology would face resistance from major telecom operators like Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel, who may push for safeguards to protect their market share. They have already been advocating for satellite spectrum regulations.

But BSNL already offers this service!

#BSNL introduces Direct to Device (D2D) service, a pioneering solution that converges satellite and terrestrial mobile networks, ensures uninterrupted connectivity even in the remotest corner of India. #ConnectingBharat #D2D #DirectToDevice pic.twitter.com/99cce3BFdD

— BSNL India (@BSNLCorporate) October 24, 2024

Interestingly, BSNL, India's oldest telecom operator, has already launched its direct-to-device satellite connectivity in the country. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has partnered with Viasat, a US-based satellite communication company, for this operation.

BSNL is the first telecom service provider to launch direct satellite connectivity in India.

BSNL claims that its service will not only help send SOS messages when stuck in remote areas but also facilitate UPI payments when there is no internet connection.

While Starlink has announced its upcoming direct-to-cell technology, it is expected to roll out plans and data tariffs by next year (2025). By then, we should have confirmation about the Starlink launch in India as well.