BSNL launches satellite-to-device service

State-run telecom service provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) on Wednesday announced the launch of direct-to-device satellite connectivity service.

The first satellite-to-device service in the country, BSNL is using a technology jointly developed with a California, US-based company, called Viasat.

The technology will help BSNL seamlessly connect remote and isolated areas in the country through direct satellite link.

Users can also make emergency and send SMS messages when cellular network or Wi-Fi connectivity fails, BSNL said. It did not elaborate.

Viasat, which helped BSNL develop the satcom technology, demonstrated its non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity capability at the Indian Mobile Congress in October. It was able to send and receive messages from a geostationary L-band satellite stationed some 38,000 kilometres away.

BSNL, which has been trying out the technology from last month, said it would make the service available to all its subscribers. It, however, did not specify how it will be provided. It is also not known whether it will be added to the current offering or bundled out as a separate service.

At present, satellite communication is reserved for select uses such as emergency services, military, and other such services.

The state-run telecom service provider also launched live streaming of TV programmes, through its fibre optic network, with over 500 channels in India.

BSNL is currently carrying out trials of the Fibre-To-The-Home service in the Tamil Nadu and Madhya Pradesh service circles. It is yet to work out the integration of its commercial FTTH plans.

However, the service will be launched across the country only in a phased manner.

BSNL has also come our with nationwide WiFi roaming service using its fibre optic network, allowing users to use their broadband anywhere in the country.

The state-owned telecom company will also be providing several other services, including spam protection to empower customers.