Vodafone Idea Limited (Vi) and AST SpaceMobile Inc. (AST SpaceMobile) have collaborated to expand mobile connectivity across India’s unconnected regions. AST SpaceMobile made history by placing the first ever voice and video call from space using a standard mobile phone, a milestone that demonstrates the real-world viability of its advanced technology.
This 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 specialised software or device support or updates.
Aligned with Digital India’s initiatives, AST SpaceMobile and Vi will collaborate on the SpaceMobile Satellite System. This space-based cellular broadband ecosystem will be designed to expand Vi’s telecom services of terrestrial connectivity, providing voice, video, data streaming, and internet access. It will encompass the design, implementation, and launch of this system, wherein AST SpaceMobile will develop, manufacture, and manage the satellite constellation, and Vi will oversee terrestrial network integration, operating spectrum, and market access.
Commenting on the collaboration, chief marketing officer, Vi, said, “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.”
Meanwhile, chief commercial officer, AST SpaceMobile, said, “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. 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 Vi, 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.”
In addition, together, Vi and AST SpaceMobile will also collaborate to develop commercial offerings for diverse sectors, including consumer, enterprise and Internet of Thing (IoT).
