Vodafone Idea Introduces New Service for Audio and Video Calls Without Mobile Network

In a major step toward expanding telecom connectivity, Vodafone Idea (Vi) has partnered with AST SpaceMobile, a U.S.-based satellite communications company that rivals Elon Musk’s SpaceX. This partnership will bring satellite-powered voice, video, and internet services directly to regular mobile phones in India—without the need for terrestrial mobile networks.

Direct Satellite Connectivity to Regular Smartphones

Vodafone Idea revealed that AST SpaceMobile is building a space-based cellular broadband network designed to be accessible directly by standard mobile devices. Unlike traditional satellite phones that require specialized hardware, this technology will allow everyday smartphones to make voice and video calls, stream data, and access the internet seamlessly, even in remote or disconnected regions.

Vi emphasized that the service will cater to both commercial and government applications, boosting mobile access in rural and underserved areas across India.

AST SpaceMobile’s Breakthrough in Space-Based Mobile Communication

AST SpaceMobile has already demonstrated its technological capabilities by making the first-ever voice and video calls from space to an unmodified mobile phone. The company further claimed to have achieved:

• 4G data download speeds above 10 Mbps in June 2023

• The first 5G voice call from space in September 2023

These breakthroughs show the real-world viability of AST's technology and how it can revolutionize mobile connectivity worldwide.

No Launch Date Yet, But Vi Promises Timely Updates

While Vodafone Idea has not yet confirmed the official launch date for its satellite services, the company stated that more details will be shared at an appropriate time. Notably, Vodafone Plc, one of Vi’s promoter firms, had previously signed a global agreement with AST SpaceMobile to explore these services.

Combining Vi's National Network with Satellite Innovation

The collaboration aims to combine Vi's nationwide telecom infrastructure with AST SpaceMobile’s low Earth orbit satellite network. This will enable the delivery of advanced telecom services such as:

• Voice and video calling

• Data streaming

• Internet access

• Enterprise and IoT connectivity

Importantly, users will not require any new devices, apps, or software—existing smartphones will be able to connect directly to satellites.

India Seen as a Key Market for Satellite Connectivity

An AST SpaceMobile executive described India as a key testbed for their satellite technology due to its diverse geography and large unconnected population. The firm aims to bridge the digital divide by enabling mobile access in regions with no cell tower infrastructure.

The service is expected to boost not only consumer communication but also support enterprise-grade and Internet of Things (IoT) use cases, especially in areas like agriculture, logistics, mining, and disaster recovery.

Rising Competition: SpaceX’s Starlink and Jio-Airtel Partnerships

Vodafone Idea isn’t the only telecom player eyeing satellite connectivity. SpaceX's Starlink is also preparing to offer satellite-based internet services in India. The company has partnered with Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel to expand Starlink’s footprint in the country.

Starlink recently secured a license from the Indian telecom department to operate its satellite internet services. This places it in direct competition with Vodafone Idea and AST SpaceMobile’s upcoming venture.

Government Approves Administrative Spectrum Allocation

In a related policy update, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended that satellite communication spectrum be allocated via administrative routes rather than auctions. The government has accepted this proposal but clarified that it will apply only to point-to-point satellite communication services and will be subject to fixed fees.

This development supports easier rollout of satellite services by companies like AST SpaceMobile and Starlink, although traditional telecom players have raised concerns over the lack of auctions.

Conclusion: A New Era of Mobile Connectivity in India

Vodafone Idea’s partnership with AST SpaceMobile marks a game-changing moment for India’s telecom sector. With the promise of satellite-powered mobile services that work without a terrestrial network, millions of Indians in rural and hard-to-reach areas could soon gain access to high-speed internet and mobile communication for the first time. The service, once launched, is expected to redefine digital inclusivity across the country.