New Delhi: A new change may soon be seen in the internet world in India. Till now, mobile network or fiber cable has been used to provide internet to most of the homes, but now there are preparations to provide high-speed internet through satellite also. In this field, Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio and Elon Musk's company SpaceX's Starlink are the main contenders. After the start of the services of both the companies, people can get benefit especially in those areas where good internet connectivity is not yet available. However, the biggest question for Indian customers is regarding its price and internet speed.
License to three companies for satellite internet
Three companies have been given license for satellite communication i.e. SATCOM services in India. These include Reliance Jio, Elon Musk's Starlink and Airtel-backed OneWeb.
These companies will have to complete some important procedures before starting their services. These include the process of security clearance and spectrum allocation. Only after this will services be started on a commercial level.
Starting price of Jio's fiber internet
At present, companies like Jio and Airtel in India are providing broadband internet through fiber cable. The price of Jio's initial broadband plan starts from Rs 599. Internet speed up to 100 Mbps is available in this plan.
In fiber internet, connection is provided by laying cables to the house. Where this facility is easily available, customers are already getting internet at affordable rates.
What is the price of Starlink's America plan?
The price of Starlink service in India has not been announced yet. However, the company is offering its services in other countries. The initial residential plan of Starlink in Chicago, USA is $ 60.50 i.e. about Rs 5,600 per month. It provides internet speed of 100 Mbps.
From this it can be estimated that the cost of satellite internet may be higher than traditional fiber broadband. However, its price may be different when launched in India.
There can be a big difference in installation also
In fiber broadband connection, companies often provide free installation with a three-month plan. At the same time, for satellite internet, a special terminal has to be installed on the roof of the house, which receives signals from the satellite.
According to Starlink's US portal, there is no separate initial payment for the hardware, but the equipment has to be returned upon termination of service. Apart from this, the fee for professional installation is $99 i.e. around Rs 9,000. These charges may vary in India.
How does satellite internet work?
There is no need to lay fiber cable underground in satellite internet. Instead, Internet signals are sent through a network of satellites in space.
In the case of Starlink, a special terminal is installed on the roof of the house. This terminal receives signals from satellites present in space. After this, it is connected to the Wi-Fi router through a cable, so that internet can be used inside the house.
Hilly and remote areas will benefit
The biggest advantage of satellite internet can be seen in those places where fiber cable is difficult to reach. People living in hilly, border and remote areas of the country can get better internet connectivity.
Apart from this, students studying online, small businessmen and those who need internet for daily work will also benefit.
Jio and Airtel will face a new challenge
Jio and Airtel are already big players in broadband and mobile internet in India. Internet prices in the country are also much lower than the international market. In such a situation, it will not be easy for Starlink to make its place in the Indian market.
For Indian customers, not only new technology will matter, but price, internet speed and service reliability will also be important. At present, the real price of Indian services of Jio and Starlink is awaited.