Vi (Vodafone Idea), one of India’s leading telecom providers, has announced a strategic partnership with AST SpaceMobile Inc., the company building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard smartphones. This partnership aims to enhance mobile connectivity across India’s remote and unconnected regions.
AST SpaceMobile has already demonstrated its breakthrough technology by making the world’s first voice and video call from space using a regular mobile phone. Now, in collaboration with Vi, the company plans to bring similar capabilities to India.
With over 1.1 billion mobile subscribers, India is a vast telecom market with strong 4G and growing 5G infrastructure. However, certain terrains still lack reliable mobile coverage due to challenges in deploying terrestrial networks. This partnership will leverage AST SpaceMobile’s satellite connectivity to complement existing terrestrial networks and fill these gaps.
The collaboration will integrate AST SpaceMobile’s satellite technology with Vi’s nationwide network to offer seamless voice, video, and internet access without requiring any special devices or software. The initiative aligns with the Indian government’s Digital India mission, targeting improved digital access and connectivity across all regions.
Under this alliance, AST SpaceMobile will develop and operate the satellite system, while Vi will manage the integration with its network, spectrum operations, and market access. The two companies will also co-develop commercial solutions for various sectors including consumers, enterprises, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
This innovative step places India at the forefront of global space-tech development and paves the way for a new era of connectivity that bridges digital divides using cutting-edge space-based mobile technology.
