The idea of getting internet connectivity from satellites is getting popular. But, as the technology is maturing, satellite communication (satcom) based internet service is becoming far from a user-centric technology. Is it viable for users in India?
Where do satcom players stand in India?
Despite the discussions, satcom services are yet to be operational. The main uncertainty is actually the date of launch pending allocation of satellite bandwidth by the Centre. Besides, operators say their technology is ready for India. There is also a licensing process involved – notably, Elon Musk's Starlink started accepting pre-registrations for its satcom internet service in 2019. But Starlink refunded all users who signed up for the service due to opposition from rivals. This happened in 2022. So far, joint ventures of Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio have received the Centre's approval to offer satcom services.
How will they target users when they launch?
Each satcom operator has a different approach. Starlink, the most well-known, is approaching individuals, but it also has business services. It has launched a 'mini' battery-powered router that can be carried anywhere to access fibre-standard broadband internet. The Airtel consortium has not ruled out launching a consumer service, with its low Earth-orbit satellites ideal to take on Starlink. However, it will also serve enterprises. The Reliance Jio-led service may start its services by targeting enterprises – most stakeholders in the satcom industry consider its business use cases to be of more interest.
What are the major satcom companies in India?
Airtel's consortium includes OneWeb and Hughes. Reliance Jio has a joint venture with Luxembourg's SES. Both have received licenses. Starlink has also applied, but its license is still pending approval. Jeff Bezos-backed Project Kuiper is also expected to enter the fray in the next two years. Last year, Tata-backed Nelco withdrew its application.
Are consumers not the direct beneficiaries?
Satcoms are as complex as consumer services. The technology is expensive to set up, and compared to the price of terrestrial fibre and mobile broadband, satcom players will find it difficult to sustain it. Moreover, offering dense networks in circles even beyond metro markets – except in marginal areas where fibre has not been laid – will make satellite broadband a surplus service. However, cost is the big issue – Starlink starts at $299 ( 25,000) one-time fee and $120 ( 10,000) per month. Even if revised for India, this is too much.
Are our devices ready for this?
This is a problem. Users will need a special antenna that can receive satellite signals. Right now, the cost for firms to set up ground stations is significantly higher than a broadband router – which is actually mostly free. Connecting satellites directly to devices is also a technology of the future – only Apple's iPhone 14 and 15 series have built-in satellite receptors. Qualcomm's attempt to put a built-in satellite chip on devices never came to fruition and was discontinued in December last year.
