Satellite internet services are soon to be launched in India. In this race, Starlink from Elon Musk and Jio from Reliance Industries are actively participating, attracting significant public attention. The Indian government has already issued licenses to three companies to provide satellite internet services, and they now need to obtain security approvals and allocate frequency spectrum before they can start operations.
The question arises as to what satellite internet service entails and at what price it will be available. Before answering this question, it is worth noting that there has recently been tension between Elon Musk and the Reliance company on social media.
Musk expressed doubts regarding delays in the launch of Starlink in India. In response, the Ministry of Government of India issued a statement clarifying that licenses have been granted to three companies, and the further process must be completed. Among the companies that received licenses are mentioned Starlink, Jio, and OneWeb.
Satellite internet service allows users to receive high-speed internet directly at home without the need to lay fiber optic cables or use ground mobile towers. This is achieved by placing satellites in low Earth orbits that provide high-speed internet transmission directly into homes.
Typically, during severe storms, earthquakes, tsunamis, or other natural disasters, ground poles and towers are destroyed, leading to internet connection outages. Satellite internet service remains protected and continues to function under such conditions.
The signal is sent from the satellite and then received by a home antenna dish, which is also called a terminal. This terminal receives the signal from the satellite and transmits it to a Wi-Fi router, providing users with high-speed internet.
The greatest benefit from satellite communication (SATCOM) will be enjoyed by areas where fiber optic lines have not yet been laid.
India is a very large market, and many companies are striving to launch their services here. This is precisely why Starlink is entering the market. The question arises as to which company, Jio or Starlink, will prevail. Competition in India is limited not only to technology; price is also an important factor, alongside speed, coverage, and installation cost.
Jio is already known for its affordable tariff plans and strategy. However, there is no official information yet on what price Jio and Starlink will begin offering their plans in India. Nevertheless, there are Starlink plans available in the USA. For example, in Chicago, USA, the initial monthly cost for residential and business customers is 55 US dollars (5,222 rupees). This plan provides a speed of 100 Mbps and is intended for small and medium-sized homes. Although the installation of the terminal and setup of the equipment that receives the signal from the satellite and transmits it to the router is provided, there is no official information yet on whether the terminal and installation in India will be free or paid.