Explained: BSNL made a satellite phone, it costs more than iPhone 17 Pro, but why

BSNL has launched a satellite phone in India for Rs 1.34 lakh. While it costs more than Apple's iPhone 17 Pro, it isn't meant to compete with Apple's flagship. Instead, it's built for providing reliable communication in places where mobile networks do not exist.

In Short

• BSNL introduces satellite phone in India
• The phone costs Rs 1.34 lakh
• Buyers will require DoT approval before buying and using it

BSNL has launched a satellite phone in India priced at Rs 1,34,166, making it costlier than Apple's iPhone 17 Pro. Now at first glance, the pricing may seem surprising. After all, the iPhone can take photos, run apps, play games and even offers limited satellite connectivity for emergencies. So why would anyone pay more for a device that looks like an old feature phone?

Well, the BSNL satellite phone is not a premium smartphone designed to compete with flagship devices. It serves a completely different purpose. It is a specialised communication tool built for organisations and professionals working in remote, off-grid and emergency situations, where conventional mobile networks simply don't exist.

Let's take a closer look at how the BSNL satellite phone works, who can use it, and how it differs from Apple's satellite feature.

What is the BSNL satellite phone?

The new handset is part of BSNL's Global Satellite Phone Service (GSPS). Instead of relying on nearby mobile towers, it connects directly to satellites, allowing users to make voice calls and send SMS even in areas without conventional cellular coverage.

According to BSNL, the phone is designed for defence personnel, maritime operations, disaster response teams, mining companies, remote industrial sites, pilgrims and adventure travellers. It is also intended for emergencies where terrestrial telecom infrastructure may be damaged or unavailable.

The handset features a rugged design, long battery life, voice calling and an SOS emergency function, making it suitable for use in harsh environments.

Why does it cost so much?

The biggest reason is the technology behind it.

Unlike a smartphone that connects to a nearby mobile tower, the BSNL satellite phone communicates directly with satellites operated by global providers such as Inmarsat. That connectivity requires specialised hardware, dedicated antennas and satellite communication equipment, all of which are significantly more expensive than the components found in a regular smartphone.

Satellite phones are also produced in much smaller numbers than smartphones, which further increases manufacturing costs.

But the handset price is only part of the equation. Users also need to subscribe to satellite communication plans, which are considerably more expensive than standard mobile plans.

BSNL satellite calling plans

While the handset has grabbed attention this week, BSNL's satellite communication service isn't entirely new.

According to a Ministry of Communications statement, BSNL has been offering its Global Satellite Phone Service (GSPS) to the public and enterprises since January 2018. The service provides encrypted voice calling and SMS under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) guidelines.

Earlier this year, the government also notified tariff plans for the service. Commercial users can opt for monthly or annual prepaid and post-paid plans, with monthly commercial plans starting at Rs 5,835, while government plans begin at Rs 3,500. Free talk time is included, after which additional call and SMS charges apply.

How is the BSNL satellite phone different from the satellite feature on an iPhone?

Apple's iPhones support Emergency SOS via satellite in select countries. The feature is designed for situations where users have no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. It allows them to contact emergency services or share their location using satellites.

The BSNL satellite phone works very differently.

It is a dedicated satellite communication device, meaning it can make regular voice calls and send SMS through satellite networks without relying on mobile towers. It is designed for continuous communication in remote locations rather than occasional emergency use.

In simple terms, Apple's satellite feature is meant for emergencies, whereas the BSNL satellite phone is built for full-time satellite communication.

Can anyone buy the BSNL satellite phone?

Not exactly.

Satellite phones are tightly regulated in India. Anyone wishing to purchase or use one must first obtain explicit approval from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). Using a satellite phone without authorisation can attract legal action.

- Ends