Reliance Jio’s Satellite Services vs. OneWeb
A senior executive from Reliance Jio has issued a warning to OneWeb, which is backed by the Bharti Group, suggesting that they should not underestimate satellite services. The competition between these two major players in the satellite communication space is heating up.
Jio has already achieved a remarkable milestone by demonstrating 1 Gbps broadband connectivity through its satellite services. This feat sets Jio apart and may pose a significant challenge to competitors.
Fierce Competition in Broadband-from-Space
The battle for dominance in broadband-from-space services is becoming the next frontier, with major industry giants like Jio and OneWeb gearing up to enter the market. They will also contend with formidable rivals such as Starlink by Elon Musk and Amazon’s Project Kuiper.
Introducing JioSpaceFiber, India's first Gigabit Satellite Connectivity 🛰. Visit Jio pavilion at India Mobile Congress 2023 to know more. #JioAtIMC #Jio #JioSpaceFiber #IMC2023 pic.twitter.com/V62cwUF4u7
— Reliance Jio (@reliancejio) October 27, 2023
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While the satellite communications market in India is still in its early stages, it holds substantial potential, particularly in rural and remote areas. An EY-ISpA report projects India’s space economy to reach $13 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%.
Jio’s Strategic Position in Satellite Services
Matthew Oommen, the President of Reliance Jio, emphasized Jio’s strategic position in the satellite communication market. In partnership with SES, a Luxembourg-based satellite provider, Jio is well-prepared to launch broadband-from-space services in a matter of weeks once they are allocated the necessary spectrum.
Jio distinguishes itself as the first non-geostationary satellite provider (NGSO) in India. The company’s gigabit-capable NGSO operations are a unique selling point that may prove challenging for other providers to match in the near future.
OneWeb’s India Connectivity Plans
OneWeb, backed by Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Enterprises, has announced plans to connect all parts of India in the coming month. This development adds to the competitive landscape in the satellite communication sector.
Check Out: Narayana Murthy's Advice Sparks Debate on Work-Life BalanceRegarding pricing for Jio’s satellite communication services, Matthew Oommen assured that Jio consistently offers competitive services in any industry it enters. This commitment to affordability will likely be a key selling point for consumers.
A Unique Auction-Based Approach
Oommen expressed support for conducting auctions as the primary method for allocating satellite communication airwaves. This approach positions satellite companies to provide services akin to those of traditional telecom operators and contrasts with OneWeb’s strategy.
In the evolving world of satellite communication, Jio’s satellite services with 1 Gbps connectivity pose a formidable challenge to competitors, including OneWeb. The satellite communication market in India holds immense potential, and with its strategic position, Jio aims to be a dominant player in this space, offering competitive services.
