BSNL Satellite Phone launched: Why it can stay connected when smartphones can’t

New Delhi: BSNL officially introduced its satellite phone, which is not a competitor to smartphones like the iPhone or Samsung. Rather than being a specialized communication device, it is built for situations where mobile towers do not exist or have stopped working, making it a mission-critical product instead of a consumer gadget.

It is priced at Rs 1,34,166, including taxes. Unlike those conventional phones that connect to nearby cellular towers, this handset communicates directly with the satellites, enabling users to make voice calls and send SMS from locations where there is no mobile coverage.

It features satellite-based voice calling, SMS support, an SOS emergency feature, a rugged design for harsh environments, long battery life, works in areas without cellular towers, and uses an Inmarsat satellite network for connectivity. A satellite phone connects directly to satellites orbiting the Earth, enabling communication from Himalayan regions, Dense forests, deserts, oceans, border areas, islands, and disaster-hit locations where the towers are destroyed. However, satellite phones always continue working because they bypass terrestrial infrastructure, making them invaluable for rescue teams and emergency responders.

Unlike the traditional SIM that depends on the telecom circle, satellite coverage expands to places where no telecom operator has infrastructure. Although anyone might be interested, there are some reasons why it is unlikely to become a mainstream device, as it is priced very high, at Rs 1.34 lakh. Some reports suggested satellite calls are significantly more expensive than normal mobile calls, with several reports citing around Rs 18 per minute, reflecting the high cost of satellite connectivity. Users must obtain authorization from the Department of Telecommunications before purchasing or operating one.

BSNL satellite device is special because it offers communication beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks. Its ability to stay connected during disasters, in remote regions, and in mission-critical environments makes it a niche but highly valuable device. For the average smartphone user, though its high price, expensive usage costs, and regulatory restrictions mean it is not intended to replace a regular mobile phone.