Brands
Costlier than an iPhone, BSNL’s new satellite phone targets India’s toughest terrains
Device targets defence, disaster response and remote operations rather than everyday smartphone users
MUMBAI: When there’s no signal, this phone still has something to say. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has launched a satellite phone in India priced at Rs 1,34,166, offering users the ability to make voice calls in areas where conventional cellular networks are unavailable. Unlike regular smartphones that rely on nearby mobile towers, the device communicates directly through satellites, making it suitable for specialised sectors operating in remote or disaster-prone regions.
The state-run telecom operator said the satellite phone is designed for environments where terrestrial mobile connectivity is unreliable or non-existent. It is aimed at users in defence, maritime operations, disaster response, mining, remote industrial sites and adventure travel, where maintaining communication can be critical.
Unlike an iPhone or Android smartphone, the BSNL satellite phone does not depend on 4G, 5G or Wi-Fi networks for connectivity. Instead, it links directly to communication satellites, allowing voice calls even in isolated mountains, forests, deserts, offshore waters or regions affected by natural disasters where mobile infrastructure may have failed.
The device is primarily intended for voice communication rather than the rich multimedia experience offered by modern smartphones. While conventional smartphones are built around high-speed internet, mobile apps, streaming, photography and gaming, satellite phones prioritise reliable communication in locations beyond the reach of cellular coverage.
BSNL highlighted several key features, including satellite-based connectivity, nationwide voice calling capability through satellite coverage, emergency communication support and long battery life. These features make the handset particularly relevant for government agencies, emergency responders and organisations working in remote locations.
The price tag of Rs 1,34,166, inclusive of taxes, also reflects its niche positioning. Satellite phones use specialised hardware and satellite infrastructure that are significantly more expensive than standard mobile devices, limiting their appeal to specialised users rather than mass-market consumers.
The launch comes as satellite communication gains increasing attention globally, with governments and telecom operators exploring ways to extend connectivity beyond traditional terrestrial networks. While consumer smartphones are also beginning to incorporate limited satellite-based emergency messaging capabilities, dedicated satellite phones continue to offer broader communication capabilities in areas where conventional networks simply do not exist.
For most consumers, an iPhone or Android device remains the practical choice for everyday communication. But for professionals operating far from mobile towers or in emergencies where terrestrial networks fail, BSNL’s satellite phone is designed to ensure that staying connected does not depend on finding a signal.
