Jio Platforms Limited, the digital services company of Reliance Industries, has announced a partnership with SpaceX to offer Starlink’s broadband internet services to customers in India. The agreement is contingent upon SpaceX receiving authorization to sell Starlink in the country. This announcement comes shortly after Jio’s competitor, Bharti Airtel, also signed a similar agreement with SpaceX.
Mathew Oommen, the Group CEO of Reliance Jio, stated, “Our collaboration with SpaceX to bring Starlink to India strengthens our commitment and marks a transformative step toward 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 high-speed broadband in this AI-driven era, empowering communities and businesses across the country.”
The agreement will allow Jio and SpaceX to explore how Starlink can enhance Jio’s offerings and how Jio can complement SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumers and businesses. Jio will offer Starlink solutions through its retail outlets and online stores. Leveraging Jio’s position as the world’s largest mobile operator in terms of data traffic and Starlink’s status as a leading low Earth orbit satellite constellation operator, the partnership aims to provide reliable broadband services nationwide, including in rural and remote areas.
Jio will not only sell Starlink equipment in its retail outlets but will also provide customer service installation and activation support. The partnership with SpaceX reflects Jio’s commitment to ensuring reliable internet access for enterprises, small businesses, and communities throughout India. Starlink will work alongside JioAirFiber and JioFiber to extend high-speed internet to challenging locations quickly and affordably.
Jio and SpaceX are also considering additional areas of collaboration to enhance India’s digital ecosystem. Gwynne Shotwell, the President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX, commended Jio’s dedication to advancing India’s connectivity and expressed excitement about working together to expand access to Starlink’s high-speed internet services pending government authorization.
This article includes PTI inputs.
