India’s state-owned telecom operator BSNL has introduced a new satellite phone in India aimed at users who need reliable communication in places where conventional mobile networks are unavailable. Unlike a regular smartphone, the device connects through satellites instead of nearby telecom towers, making it suitable for critical situations and remote regions. The new offering is now available at a premium price and comes with strict regulatory requirements.

Built for communication beyond mobile networks

The BSNL satellite phone is priced at Rs 1,34,166 (~$1,400), including taxes, and is designed for areas where cellular coverage does not exist. Instead of depending on 4G or 5G towers, the handset communicates directly with satellites, allowing users to make voice calls even in isolated locations. BSNL has developed the service in partnership with global satellite communication provider Inmarsat, enabling connectivity across difficult terrain and off-grid regions.

The handset features a rugged design that is suitable for demanding outdoor conditions and includes a long-lasting battery for extended operation when access to charging facilities is limited. It also comes with an SOS emergency feature that can be used during distress situations, making it a practical communication tool during natural disasters, rescue missions, or operations in remote environments.

The satellite phone is not intended for everyday smartphone users. BSNL says it is aimed at sectors such as defense, disaster response, maritime services, mining, industrial operations, research teams, pilgrims traveling through isolated routes and adventure enthusiasts exploring remote destinations. In such situations, satellite communication can remain operational even when terrestrial telecom infrastructure is unavailable.

Buying or using the device requires prior authorization from the Department of Telecommunications, as satellite phones are regulated in India. Using one without approval can lead to legal action under existing regulations. Those interested can contact BSNL or visit a nearby BSNL office for more information. Alongside this launch, BSNL continues to strengthen its nationwide network with the rollout of nearly 99,000 4G sites.

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The post No mobile network? This satellite phone still lets you make calls appeared first on Gizmochina.

A few months back, India inaugurated the 5G network service in the country. Soon after that, Reliance Jio and Airtel started providing 5G network services to the top cities in India. Jio was the fastest coverage provider when it comes to 5G. However, the Indian government’s very own BSNL also claimed that they will soon launch the 4G network connectivity in the country and soon after that, they will finally announce the 5G network connectivity. However, according to the latest reports, the launch of BSNL 4G has been further delayed and now the formal launch in pushed to the second half of 2023.

The Indian government has directed that BSNL launch 4G services by the end of the current financial year, but it appears the telecom is not in a rush as it intends to launch the services in the second half of this year. This is extremely remarkable considering that the telecom company was rumoured to be bringing in 4G services by March 2023, according to the telecom minister and senior DoT officials just a few days prior. Before the official launch, the telecom operator also finished its trials with Tata Consultancy Services.

Notably, the government has also authorised an Rs. 1.64 lakh crore revival package for BSNL and MTNL, with the former expected to launch a 4G network in metro areas initially and MTNL concentrating solely on the existing connections. However, a further delay in the launch will make BSNL unable to participate in the ongoing struggle among telecom providers. So, this also confirms that the 5G launch of the BSNL will be further postponed. This is something bad news for the users of BSNL as the competition has already started providing 5G network connectivity while they are not even provided proper access to 4G, which is a generation-old network technology now.

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The post BSNL India’s 4G Launch Further Delayed; Now Scheduled for Second Half of 2023 appeared first on Gizmochina.