Vi (Vodafone Idea) has teamed up with US-based AST SpaceMobile Inc to enhance mobile connectivity in India’s underserved areas. 

This collaboration seeks to provide space-based mobile broadband services directly to smartphones throughout the country.

In line with India’s digital initiatives, AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone Idea will work together on the SpaceMobile Satellite System.

By integrating AST SpaceMobile’s low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellite technology with Vi’s existing telecom infrastructure, this effort aims to significantly improve mobile connectivity in remote and difficult-to-reach regions.

“The partnership will bring together Vi's robust national network with AST SpaceMobile's revolutionary space-based cellular technology, which connects directly to everyday smartphones without the need of any specialized software or device support or updates,” Vi says.

“The partnership will bring together Vi's robust national network with AST SpaceMobile's revolutionary space-based cellular technology, which connects directly to everyday smartphones without the need of any specialized software or device support or updates,” Vi says.

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Avneesh Khosla, Chief Marketing Officer, Vi, says "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.”

“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,” he added.

The new space-based cellular broadband framework will be designed to augment Vi's ground-based telecom services, offering voice, video, data streaming, and internet connectivity. 

The project includes the design, implementation, and deployment of this system, where AST SpaceMobile will handle the development, manufacturing, and management of the satellite constellation, while Vi will be responsible for terrestrial network integration, spectrum management, and market accessibility.

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Under the partnership, Vi will manage terrestrial network integration, spectrum operations, and market accessibility, while AST SpaceMobile will take charge of developing, manufacturing, and overseeing the satellite constellation that supports the system.

This collaboration will facilitate a variety of applications, including remote education, telemedicine, agriculture, emergency services, and disaster relief efforts.