Vi (Vodafone Idea) and AST SpaceMobile today announced a strategic partnership aimed at expanding mobile connectivity, particularly in currently unconnected regions of India.
AST SpaceMobile recently demonstrated its technology by successfully conducting the first-ever voice and video call from space using a standard mobile phone. This achievement highlights the potential real-world applications of their space-based cellular broadband network, which is designed to be accessible directly by conventional smartphones for both commercial and government uses.
The collaboration will integrate Vi’s established national network with AST SpaceMobile’s space-based cellular technology. A key aspect of AST SpaceMobile’s approach is its ability to connect directly with everyday smartphones, eliminating the need for specialized software, device support, or updates.
This space-based cellular broadband ecosystem is intended to augment Vi’s existing terrestrial connectivity services, offering voice, video, data streaming, and internet access.
Under the agreement, AST SpaceMobile will be responsible for the development, manufacturing, and management of the satellite constellation. Vi, on the other hand, will manage the terrestrial network integration, operating spectrum, and market access within India.
This collaboration is anticipated to position India at the forefront of global space technology innovation and is expected to drive the development of new use cases and applications for connectivity.
Furthermore, Vi and AST SpaceMobile plan to jointly develop commercial offerings tailored for various sectors, including consumer, enterprise, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
Commenting on this, Avneesh Khosla, 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.
Chris Ivory, 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 Vodafone Idea, 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.