Another major player is poised to enter India's burgeoning satellite internet market. Following Elon Musk's Starlink, Apple's satellite communication partner, Globalstar, has expressed its intent to launch services in India.
Apple & Globalstar: India's satellite internet market is rapidly expanding, attracting interest from global tech giants. After Elon Musk's Starlink, Globalstar, Apple's satellite communication partner, has also indicated its desire to launch services in India. The company has applied for regulatory approval from the government.
If approved, Globalstar will join Starlink in the race to provide satellite internet services in India. Other companies, including OneWeb, Project Kuiper (an Amazon initiative), and Orbit Connect, have also applied for permission to launch satellite internet services in the country.
Seeking Approval from IN-SPACe, Soon to Apply for GMPCS License
Globalstar has officially submitted an application to IN-SPACe, the Indian agency promoting private participation in the space sector. The company plans to subsequently approach the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) for a GMPCS (Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite) license. Both approvals are necessary to launch commercial satellite internet services in India.
Disaster Management Trials Underway
Globalstar has already secured test spectrum for satellite-based disaster management services in India. The company is currently testing satellite connectivity for emergency services. However, to connect with the general public, the company will require a commercial license, which will be granted after GMPCS approval.
Potential Expansion of Apple and Globalstar Partnership in India
Globalstar and Apple's existing partnership already provides Direct-to-Satellite Emergency Services to iPhone users in the US, Canada, Australia, and parts of Europe. An expansion of this partnership in India could bring satellite-based emergency connectivity to iPhone users in the country.
India Becomes a Hotspot for Satellite Internet Companies
In addition to Globalstar, several global companies, such as Amazon's Project Kuiper, OneWeb, and Orbit Connect, are in the process of launching satellite internet services in India. Currently, only OneWeb and Orbit Connect have received both GMPCS and IN-SPACe approvals. If Globalstar receives the necessary approvals, Elon Musk's Starlink will face significant new competition. This could benefit users through improved connectivity, lower prices, and greater technological diversity.
