State-run telecom operator Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited has launched the BSNL Satellite Phone in India, designed to stay connected in places where there are no mobile towers. Unlike a regular smartphone, the BSNL satellite phone can connect directly to orbiting satellites instead of cellular networks.
BSNL Satellite Phone Specifications and Features
The BSNL Satellite Phone uses dedicated "satphone" services, which rely on global-orbiting satellites to communicate directly with ground devices. BSNL is using India's own INMARSAT (International Maritime Satellite Organisation) satellite cluster to enable the service.
For those unaware, INMARSAT was founded by ISRO in 2010 to help the country's most powerful infrastructure communicate with a constellation of geostationary satellites. It's capable of handling phone, fax and data communications through handheld devices.
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According to BSNL, the satellite phone comes with specialised features designed for critical and sensitive communication:
- Satellite connectivity for areas beyond mobile network coverage
- Voice calling facility from remote locations
- SOS emergency support for distress situations
- Long battery life for extended use away from charging facilities
- Rugged and durable design built for challenging environments
Moreover, since satphones bypass regular signal towers and communicate directly with extraterrestrial satellites, their usage is highly regulated in India. Only Department of Telecommunication (DoT) authorised personnel can use the BSNL Satellite Phone.
This includes Defence and Strategic Operations, Disaster Response and Management organisations, Maritime operations like the Indian Navy, remote offshore industries, pilgrims and adventure sports professionals.
BSNL Satellite Phone Price in India and Availability
The BSNL Satellite Phone is priced at Rs 1,34,166 and is not meant for the regular citizens of India. Since satellite phones are highly regulated, only authorised customers can connect to BSNL via a dedicated contact number for procurement.
While most of us will never be able to use the BSNL Satellite Phone, it is a vital telecommunication tool for industries that require top-of-the-line security and cannot rely on regular ground cellular towers.
