BSNL and Viasat Launch India’s First Satellite-to-Device Service

State-owned Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has launched India’s first satellite-to-device service, partnering with U.S.-based satellite communications company Viasat. The collaboration successfully showcased two-way satellite messaging services at India Mobile Congress 2024 in October. 

BSNL’s Satellite-to-Device Service Debut 

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) announced, “BSNL launches India’s 1st Satellite-to-Device service! Seamless connectivity now reaches India’s remotest corners,” in a post on its official X account (formerly Twitter), along with an informational video. 

Viasat Collaboration and Service Trial 

In the trial, Viasat demonstrated two-way and emergency SOS messaging through a commercial Android smartphone equipped for non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity. Messages were transmitted nearly 36,000 km via one of Viasat’s L-band geostationary satellites, showcasing direct-to-device technology compliant with the latest global 3GPP release 17 standards, now being adopted across the industry. 

Direct-to-Device Connectivity Explained 

The technology allows everyday devices—such as smartphones, smartwatches, cars, and even industrial equipment—to connect seamlessly to both terrestrial and satellite networks. However, specific details, including service availability, applicable regions, and pricing, are yet to be announced by the telecom department, BSNL, and Viasat.