In an exciting move poised to challenge industry giant Starlink, Airtel-backed OneWeb is gearing up to introduce satellite internet services starting in September. With Airtel holding a significant 30% stake in OneWeb, this venture is expected to revolutionize connectivity across select regions.
Airtel OneWeb:
A New Competitor for Satellite Internet Airtel has been actively diversifying its wireless business by venturing into satellite internet services. Its major investment in OneWeb, a satellite service provider, has paved the way for this groundbreaking initiative. Notably, OneWeb has garnered support from prominent names like SpaceX, Qualcomm, Airbus, and Google. Despite facing bankruptcy in 2020, Airtel and the UK Government came to the rescue, enabling OneWeb to make a strong comeback.
OneWeb Approach and Technology
OneWeb is strategically positioning satellites in lower Earth orbit, creating a reliable relay system to deliver comprehensive internet coverage to ground stations. This approach bears resemblance to Elon Musk’s Starlink, albeit on a smaller scale. As of now, OneWeb boasts a constellation of 542 satellites dedicated to its internet services. While Starlink has taken the lead with an impressive 4487 satellites, OneWeb is rapidly closing the gap, intensifying the competition.
A Promising Start
Airtel’s Satellite Services from Next Month Akhil Gupta, Chairman of Bharti Enterprises (Airtel’s parent company), stressed the importance of propelling satellite communication forward. He revealed that Airtel’s OneWeb is set to unveil its services as early as next month. Though Gupta refrained from divulging specific deployment details, it’s evident that Airtel is strategically positioning itself in the satellite internet landscape.
Unlocking Connectivity with OneWeb
Similar to the technology employed by Starlink, harnessing OneWeb’s satellite internet services necessitates the installation of a receiver antenna on the ground, akin to Direct-to-Home (DTH) setups. This approach facilitates internet access even in remote regions without requiring cumbersome underground cables typical of broadband connections.
An Insight into the Future Despite the excitement, it’s important to note that direct smartphone connectivity to OneWeb satellites for internet services won’t be feasible. While Android Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are working on integrating satellite connectivity for SOS alerts, full-fledged internet access remains restricted.
Geographical Expansion
OneWeb’s Trajectory Currently, OneWeb’s satellite coverage is primarily concentrated in the Arctic region, spanning regions like the UK, Greenland, Alaska, and parts of Canada. Expansion plans include reaching the US and Australia before considering other markets such as the Middle East and South Asia. However, the Indian market seems unlikely to witness OneWeb’s services due to Airtel’s focus on enhancing Airtel Xtream fiber connections and investing in 5G infrastructure.
Airtel’s Multifaceted Priorities With ongoing projects, operational commitments in cellular and DTH spectrum, and a strong 25% DTH market share in India introducing OneWeb’s services to the country appears improbable for Airtel. The company’s present emphasis remains on advancing Airtel Xtream fiber offerings and rolling out widespread 5G connectivity.
In conclusion, Airtel’s collaboration with OneWeb is poised to reshape the satellite internet landscape, offering viable alternatives to established players. As OneWeb’s services prepare to debut, the telecom industry braces for an exciting wave of innovation and enhanced global connectivity.
