Top News

Starlink is gearing up to enter the Indian market. As a satellite-based internet service it can pose a challenge to existing telecom giants like Mukesh Ambani’s Jio and Sunil Mittal’s Airtel. However there are huge differences between them in terms of prices and services. Starlink is targeting different sets of customers and its objective is different. What Is Elon Musk’s Starlink? Starlink is a satellite-based internet service operated by SpaceX. It delivers high-speed internet connectivity through Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Traditional internet is delivered via optical fiber or cell towers but Starlink provides internet using satellites. Starlink doesn’t directly compete with traditional telecom operators. Instead it is entering a new segment that currently doesn’t exist for the general public in India that is satellite internet. So initially Starlink’s entry may not affect the existing players like Airtel Jio or Vi. Starlink VS Jio Airtel Elon Musk’s Starlink wants to provide internet connectivity in remote and underserved regions where conventional wired or wireless infrastructure is lacking. In such areas where connectivity hasn’t reached due to infrastructure challenges Starlink can be beneficial. In urban areas however Starlink may not have much value as users already have access to similar or even better internet speeds at lower prices through existing providers. At least initially Starlink won’t be in direct competition with Jio Airtel or Vi in cities. What Are Starlink’s Challenges? Using Starlink’s service doesn’t just require a subscription plan; users also need a hardware kit i.e. a receiver set that can connect to the satellite signals. In India satellite spectrum has not yet been allocated and the process for allocation is still undecided. Its unclear whether the allocation will follow a traditional auction route or be done administratively. On the other hand companies like Jio Airtel and Vi have already rolled out 5G services across many cities and villages. They also enjoy a strong customer base competitive pricing and a wide network of offline retail stores. Starlink’s success in India will therefore depend heavily on its pricing and availability.