Banglalink to launch direct mobile-to-satellite service with Starlink

Banglalink has received approval from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to launch its Starlink Direct-to-Cell service, aimed at extending mobile connectivity to areas of Bangladesh beyond the reach of traditional terrestrial networks.

Banglalink said the launch would make Bangladesh the first country in South Asia to introduce Starlink Direct-to-Cell connectivity, according to the press release.

The service is designed to allow Banglalink customers with 4G-enabled phones to connect directly to Starlink satellites wherever Direct-to-Cell coverage is available, without requiring a special handset, satellite dish or additional equipment.

Banglalink said the service requires no additional installation or setup and is intended to provide connectivity in areas where conventional mobile networks are unavailable.

All Banglalink subscribers using compatible 4G-enabled phones will be able to access the service where Starlink Direct-to-Cell coverage is available.

Initially, the service will support SMS and data-based messaging, while satellite connectivity is also intended to facilitate internet-based communication services.

By combining Banglalink's existing mobile network with Starlink's satellite technology, the service aims to extend mobile connectivity beyond conventional network coverage to areas including the sea, remote islands, coastal communities and hill tracts.

Banglalink said the service could be particularly useful for fishermen and others working at sea, communities living in remote areas, and travellers passing through locations where terrestrial mobile coverage is unavailable.

The service could also help people remain connected with their families and seek assistance during cyclones, floods and other natural disasters, as well as during electricity outages.

When mobile towers, power supplies or other network infrastructure are damaged or unavailable, satellite-based connectivity can provide an alternative means of communication.

Banglalink said connectivity, for the company, goes beyond providing access to a mobile network and includes enabling people to reach others when conventional communication channels are unavailable.

Starlink Direct-to-Cell extends this approach beyond the limits of traditional mobile coverage, allowing compatible mobile phones to connect through satellite technology when users are outside terrestrial network coverage.

The operator said the service could help a fisherman contact family members from the sea, a traveller remain connected while passing through a remote area, or people reach loved ones during cyclones, floods or power outages.

Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Johan Buse said, "This is ultimately about people, not technology. A fisherman far out at sea, a family in a remote area, or someone caught in a natural disaster should not have to worry about being beyond the reach of mobile services."

"With Starlink, Banglalink is taking mobile connectivity beyond the boundaries of traditional networks and bringing it to more people, in more places, across Bangladesh," he added.

The regulatory approval follows Banglalink's proof-of-concept testing of Starlink Direct-to-Cell technology in Bangladesh, including demonstrations of SMS, data-based messaging and internet-based voice communication to relevant government and regulatory authorities.

Banglalink said the approval marks a major step in its efforts to make mobile services more accessible and resilient while reducing the limitations imposed by geography and dependence on terrestrial network infrastructure.