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Apple, Google Voice Concerns Over Satellite Phone Connectivity in India

Tech giants highlight challenges of direct-to-device satellite connectivity.

May 17
2 min read
Apple, Google Voice Concerns Over Satellite Phone Connectivity in India

Top Summary

  • What happened: Apple and Google have raised concerns with the Indian government regarding direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity for smartphones.
  • Why it matters: D2D connectivity could provide ubiquitous mobile access, but faces hurdles including hardware limitations and regulatory compliance.
  • What changes: The rollout of D2D services could be delayed as stakeholders await technological advancements and clearer regulations.
  • Who is affected: Smartphone users, telecom operators, satellite service providers, and the Indian government.

Handset Hurdles and Network Priorities

Apple has advised the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) against hardware modifications or recertification of iPhones for D2D satellite connectivity in India. The company prioritizes the protection of existing terrestrial mobile networks.

Google also shared its views with the DoT, highlighting challenges such as power limitations of handset batteries and antenna constraints on small devices.

Regulatory Framework Under Consideration

The discussions with DoT were informal, aiming to understand the technology before establishing formal regulations. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has also issued a consultation paper on D2D technology.

TRAI aims to determine if D2D services should use spectrum for mobile satellite service or airwaves for mobile services like 4G and 5G.

Global Spectrum Allocation Awaited

Stakeholders suggest waiting for the ecosystem to mature before assigning spectrum bands for D2D services. The International Telecom Union (ITU) will identify spectrum bands at the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) in October-November 2027 in China.

The last WRC in Dubai in 2023 opened a portion of 6 GHz for mobility services globally.

D2D Developments Worldwide

Currently, the US, Canada, Australia, and some European countries are adopting rules for D2D satellite services. In the US, Starlink has partnered with T-Mobile to provide D2D service in remote areas. Satcom firms like AST SpaceMobile and Viasat also plan to offer D2D services.

What to Watch Next

Keep an eye on the discussions and decisions arising from TRAI's consultation paper on D2D technology. Also, monitor the outcomes of the World Radiocommunication Conference in 2027, as they will shape the future of satellite connectivity for smartphones worldwide.