Vodafone Idea Confirms 'Exploratory Talks' With Starlink, Other Satcom Providers
VIL also says it will be partnering with Nokia to provide unlimited 5G data to its subscribers from Rs 299 onwards.
Vodafone Idea Ltd. confirmed that it was in "exploratory talks" with Starlink and various other satellite communication providers to explore initiatives and tie-ups, according to an exchange filing on Wednesday.
The comments come after stock exchanges sought a clarification following news reports that said the telecom company was in talks with the SpaceX subsidiary.
"We wish to inform you that the company in ordinary course of business keeps on exploring various initiatives and tie-ups with various parties to enhance the quality of service as also for expansion of the telecom services," the filing said. "The company is in exploratory talks with various Satcom providers including Starlink."
VIL clarified that the price movement in its scrip in tandem with the news on Starlink talks can be correlated with its plans to launch their 5G services in Mumbai.
In another press release, VIL said it would be partnering with Nokia to provide unlimited 5G data to its subscribers from Rs 299 onwards, claiming that it would be the "most competitively priced option in the market".
The company has also deployed an artificial intelligence-based "self organising network", which is expected to continuously optimise network connectivity. VIL said this new deployment was to be "leaner and more energy efficient".
Jio Platforms Ltd. and Bharti Airtel Ltd. have also signed pacts to launch Starlink's internet services in India.
Jio said it would provide its retail outlets for sale of Starlink equipment and support customer service installation and activation. The company expects Starlink to complement its Jio Air Fiber and Jio Fiber broadband services.
Airtel reported a similar deal where they would partner with Starlink to provide internet connectivity via satellite technology and provide Starlink equipment through their retail stores.
Both companies plan to expand internet connectivity to rural and remote areas through the partnership with Starlink.
