Jio-SpaceX Starlink deal: Here’s what to expect from the agreement

In its statement, Jio Platforms said that it will make Starlink solutions available through its retail outlets as well as through its online storefronts

Jio Platforms Limited on March 12 announced that it has signed a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer Starlink's broadband internet services to India.

This agreement "is subject to SpaceX receiving its own authorisations to sell Starlink in India", Jio Platforms said in a statement.

According to the statement, the agreement will enable the two companies “to explore how Starlink can extend Jio’s offerings and how Jio can complement SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumers and businesses.”

“Through this agreement, the parties will leverage Jio’s position as the world's largest mobile operator in terms of data traffic and Starlink’s position as the world’s leading low Earth orbit satellite constellation operator to deliver reliable broadband services across the country, including the most rural and remote regions of India,” the statement read.

How will the agreement help Jio customers?

-         Jio stated that the agreement is a part of its commitment to ensuring that reliable internet is fully accessible to all enterprises, small and medium businesses, and communities across India.

-         Starlink enhances JioAirFiber and JioFiber by delivering high-speed internet to even the most remote and challenging areas quickly and affordably.

-         Mathew Oommen, Group CEO, Reliance Jio, said, the collaboration marks a transformative step towards seamless broadband connectivity for all.

-         “By integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem, we are expanding our reach and enhancing the reliability and accessibility of highspeed broadband in this AI-driven era, empowering communities and businesses across the country,” he said.

All about the Starlink network

According to its official website, Starlink is the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit to deliver broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more.

While SpaceX, founded by billionaire Elon Musk, owns and manages Starlink worldwide, the service's official launch in India hinges on approval from telecom regulators.

Starlink satellites operate at a lower orbit than geostationary satellites, enabling quicker and more efficient internet connections.

Requirements for Starlink satellite internet

Depending on your satellite connectivity requirements, Starlink provides an installation/equipment kit that includes a Starlink antenna (a dish for installation), a router, a satellite link cable, and an AC cable.

Starlink also makes it clear that it “needs a clear view of the sky so it can stay connected with satellites as they move overhead. Objects that obstruct the connection between your Starlink and the satellite, such as a tree branch, pole, or roof, will cause service interruptions.”

Here's what Jio Platforms said

In its statement, Jio Platforms said that it will make Starlink solutions available through its retail outlets as well as through its online storefronts.

Jio will not only offer Starlink equipment in its retail outlets but will establish mechanism to support customer service installation and activation, it added.