Vodafone Idea (Vi), India’s telecom service provider, and AST SpaceMobile, building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones, have announced a strategic partnership to expand mobile connectivity across India’s unconnected regions. AST SpaceMobile placed the first ever voice and video calls from space using standard mobile phone, a milestone that demonstrates the real-world viability of its advanced technology.
India is one of the world’s largest and most dynamic telecom markets, with over 1.1 billion mobile subscribers. While there is widespread 4G and emerging 5G coverage, satellite communication will complement terrestrial connectivity to further expand broadband cellular access in some challenging terrains where deployment of terrestrial mobile infrastructure might be difficult.
This partnership will combine Vi’s robust national network with AST SpaceMobile’s revolutionary space-based cellular technology, which connects directly to everyday smartphones without the need for any specialised software or device support or updates.
Aligned with Digital India’s initiatives, AST SpaceMobile and Vodafone Idea 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, delivering 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.
“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,” said Avneesh Khosla Chief Marketing Officer, Vi.
“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,” added 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. 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.”
This partnership positions India at the forefront of global space tech innovation and will accelerate development of use cases and applications for connectivity. Together, Vi and AST SpaceMobile will also collaborate to develop commercial offerings for diverse sectors, including consumer, enterprise and IoT.
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