Direct-to-device satellite connectivity trial successfully conducted in India by Viasat and BSNL

Direct-to-device satellite connectivity trial successfully conducted in India by Viasat and BSNL
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Oct 16, 2024

Viasat, Inc. (NASDAQ: VSAT), a leader in satellite communications, has announced the first successful demonstration of direct-to-device satellite connectivity in India, in partnership with BSNL, the country's telecom provider.

The trial took place at the India Mobile Congress, one of Asia's largest technology events, where Viasat showcased satellite-powered two-way messaging services. The demonstration is part of Viasat's efforts with partners, including BSNL, to expand satellite-based services for consumer and IoT devices worldwide.

During the trial, a commercial Android smartphone enabled for non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity was used to send two-way and emergency (SoS) messages via Viasat's geostationary L-band satellite located approximately 36,000 kilometers away. The successful outcome confirmed the feasibility of satellite-to-cell phone connectivity for Indian users using Viasat's satellite network.

Direct-to-device technology enables standard mobile phones, smartwatches, vehicles, and even industrial equipment to connect seamlessly to both terrestrial networks and satellites. This capability allows continuous connectivity without the need for specialized satellite hardware and adheres to the latest 3GPP release 17 standards, which are being adopted by satellite operators, mobile networks, and device manufacturers.

Viasat has a history of delivering reliable satellite safety services, including supporting the Global Maritime Distress and Safety Service (GMDSS) and flight deck safety communications for more than 12,000 aircraft. The company uses its licensed L-band spectrum to provide these services through a network of over 120,000 safety terminals.

As a founding member of the Mobile Satellite Service Association (MSSA), Viasat supports the development of open, interoperable architectures for integrating terrestrial and NTN services. Utilizing existing licensed satellite spectrum enables mobile operators to avoid consuming valuable cellular spectrum and simplifies regulatory approval processes.

"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," said 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."

Robert J Ravi, Chairman and Managing Director of BSNL, added, "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."