Vodafone Idea Limited (Vi) is reportedly expected to launch space-based cellular broadband services by mid-2026, pending government licensing for its partner AST Spacemobile. The companies are in discussions with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for permits such as the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPC) licence, which allows mobile satellite communication worldwide.
Vi’s chief technology officer said that the telco’s 5G rollout across 29-30 cities in 17 circles has already driven a 25-30 per cent increase in overall data traffic, supported by growing 5G device adoption. The company plans to further strengthen its 5G network based on device penetration trends.
Vi is also ready to introduce caller name presentation (CNAP) once the government finalises know-your-customer (KYC) rules. The operator is awaiting clarity on display formats, name limits under one user, and layouts across devices. CNAP, aimed at curbing spam calls and messages, will be offered free of cost to all users.
In addition, Vi is developing a global caller ID service covering more than 200 countries and a voice spam filter, expected to launch in October, to tackle fraud.
Meanwhile, the company also owns the broadband brand You Broadband, it has no immediate plans to expand that business, with current capital prioritised for mobility services.
