Airtel is set to launch its satellite internet service in India, surprising Starlink, which is also keen to enter the market. Airtel has completed base stations in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu and is awaiting government approval.
The service aims to offer affordable internet to remote areas, potentially challenging Starlink’s higher prices. Airtel has already launched 635 satellites and operates in international markets.
Additionally, the Indian government has introduced the Intra Circle Roaming (ICR) facility, allowing Jio, BSNL, and Airtel users to make calls using any network available, even when their own SIM is out of signal.
This initiative, funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi, enables users to access 4G services through shared government-funded cell towers, reducing the need for numerous towers and expediting infrastructure setup.
The cooperation between mobile network companies enhances service quality while minimizing the number of towers required, streamlining the process for better connectivity.