New Delhi: Airtel has announced an agreement with SpaceX to introduce Starlinkโs high-speed internet services to its Indian customers. This agreement is the first of its kind in the country, pending SpaceXโs approval to offer Starlink services in India.
The partnership will explore ways to combine Airtelโs existing network with Starlinkโs satellite internet technology.
This will help improve connectivity in rural areas, schools, healthcare centers, and businesses across the country.
Airtel will also offer Starlink equipment in its retail stores, making it easier for customers to access this service.
Starlink, owned by SpaceX, is a satellite internet system designed to provide high-speed broadband worldwide. It enables services like video calls, streaming, online gaming, and remote working even in remote areas with little to no existing connectivity.
By joining forces, Airtel and SpaceX aim to provide better internet services in places that currently have poor or no connectivity. Airtelโs network infrastructure will support SpaceX in delivering Starlinkโs services effectively across India.
Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice Chairman of Bharti Airtel Ltd., shared his excitement about the partnership. He said, โWorking with SpaceX to offer Starlink to Airtel customers in India is a significant milestone. This collaboration enhances our ability to bring fast broadband to even the most remote parts of India. We want to ensure that every individual, business, and community has reliable internet.โ
He added, โStarlink will complement and enhance Airtelโs suite of products to ensure reliable and affordable broadband for our Indian customers โ wherever they live and work.โ
Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, also highlighted the importance of this agreement. She said, โWe are excited to work with Airtel and unlock the transformative impact Starlink can bring to the people of India. The team at Airtel has played a key role in Indiaโs telecom journey, so working with them makes perfect sense for our business.โ
Currently, Mukesh Ambaniโs Reliance Jio leads Indiaโs broadband market with over 14 million wired subscribers and a total of nearly 500 million mobile internet users. Airtel has close to 300 million broadband subscribers. Industry experts suggest that after investing over $20 billion in spectrum auctions, Airtel and other major players are now facing competition from Starlinkโs satellite technology, which may attract customers seeking better connectivity in underserved regions.
This partnership is expected to provide better internet services to people in remote areas, giving businesses, schools, and communities improved connectivity options. Airtelโs collaboration with SpaceX aims to bridge the digital gap in India and empower people with better communication tools.
