After Elon Musk’s Starlink and Jeff Bezos’ Project Kuiper, Globalstar—Apple’s satellite communications (satcom) partner—is preparing to roll out its services in India. The Louisiana-based company has reportedly submitted an application to the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the Centre’s nodal agency for space-related authorizations.
Globalstar currently powers Apple’s Emergency SOS via satellite feature, enabling iPhone users to send messages and share their location even without cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. Apple has a significant partnership with Globalstar, utilizing 85% of its satellite network capacity, and last year invested $1.5 billion in the company, acquiring a 20% stake. However, Globalstar operates only 31 satellites, a fraction compared to Starlink’s 7,000+.
Yet to Secure Key Satcom License
Despite initiating talks, Globalstar has not yet applied for the Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT)—a requirement for spectrum access in India.
The company reportedly informed the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) that it plans to establish a wholly owned subsidiary in India, obtain GMPCS authorization, and fulfill rollout obligations. It also aims to set up earth station gateways in the country, focusing on connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
Starlink and Kuiper Also Awaiting Approvals
Meanwhile, Starlink and Project Kuiper are also awaiting GMPCS licenses and IN-SPACe clearances. These approvals are expected by June 2025, according to earlier reports. Union Minister of Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia recently stated that Starlink’s application—pending since 2021—will be cleared once all regulatory conditions are met.
Starlink has already partnered with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel for device distribution post-approval. On the regulatory front, TRAI is finalizing its recommendations on satellite spectrum allocation, pricing, and licensing terms. Once approved, Eutelsat OneWeb (backed by Bharti Airtel) and Reliance Jio, which have already secured permissions, will be positioned to roll out satellite broadband services in India.
