Viasat has announced a successful demonstration of direct-to-device satellite connectivity in India, marking a first for the country. Collaborating with BSNL, India’s telecommunications provider, Viasat showcased satellite-enabled two-way messaging services at the India Mobile Congress, one of Asia’s largest technology events. This effort is part of Viasat’s ongoing partnership with BSNL and others, aiming to expand satellite services to consumer and IoT devices worldwide.
During the demonstration, Viasat highlighted two-way messaging and SoS capabilities using a commercial Android smartphone equipped for non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity. Messages were transmitted over a distance of approximately 36,000km via one of Viasat’s geostationary L-band satellites, proving that satellite-based phone connectivity is technically viable for consumers and businesses in India.
Direct-to-device connectivity is an emerging technology enabling everyday devices—such as mobile phones, smartwatches, and cars—as well as industrial machinery and transportation systems to connect effortlessly to both terrestrial and satellite networks. This means devices can remain connected from virtually any location without the need for specialised hardware for satellite communication. This technology aligns with the latest 3GPP Release 17 standards, currently being adopted by satellite operators, mobile network providers, and device manufacturers.
As a founding member of the MSSA, a non-profit industry group, Viasat promotes open and interoperable standards for integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. For mobile operators, leveraging existing licensed satellite spectrum offers an alternative to using valuable cellular frequencies and avoids the need for new regulatory approvals.
“It is exciting to be showcasing the potential for direct-to-device in India, where D2D could help reduce barriers to accessing satellite connectivity – particularly in India where millions do not have access to reliable terrestrial connectivity,” commented Sandeep Moorthy, Chief Technical Officer at Viasat. “In the future, D2D could help transform the Indian production and supply chain to become more efficient, more sustainable and safer, and support automotive applications to enhance safety and conditions-based maintenance. Together with partners like BSNL, Viasat is driving a standards-based, open, transparent, collaborative D2D ecosystem to deliver seamless connectivity experiences no matter where a person, device, or vehicle is.”
“BSNL, in an exclusive partnership with Viasat, is proud to lead Direct-to-Device innovation. Today’s successful demonstration, the first in India, showcases the potential to enhance direct communications for critical services, disaster recovery, and even rural connectivity across India using the BSNL network and Viasat’s L-band satellite constellation,” added Robert J Ravi, Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL.
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