TRAI recommends framework to let phones connect directly to satellites without mobile towers

The problem of phone networks vanishing in hilly areas or on reaching a remote village could ease in the coming days. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has made an important proposal on satellite communication services. It could eventually promote technology in which compatible mobile devices connect directly to satellites for connectivity.

The need to put up a mobile tower everywhere is likely to shrink as a result. But the facility has not yet begun for all mobile subscribers. The picture will become clear only after the government approves the proposal and the necessary technical preparations are complete.

On 5 November 2026, TRAI recommended a new regulatory framework called Satellite Communication Network Provider Authorisation. The main aim of the proposal is to make cooperation easier between companies that provide satellite networks and companies that provide telecom services to subscribers.

Under it, the Satellite Communication Network as a Service (SCNaaS) model has been recommended. In this model, telecom companies could get the chance to use the infrastructure of other network providers instead of building their own complete satellite systems.

However, satellite network companies working under this new authorisation will not be able to sell telecom services directly to ordinary subscribers. For that, they will have to obtain a separate official permission to provide the relevant service.

At present, most mobile phones connect to a nearby tower for calling and internet. With Direct to Device (D2D) technology, compatible mobile devices can connect directly to a satellite network. The potential benefit could be felt in several places: in hilly areas where setting up towers is difficult; in remote villages where network coverage is currently limited; in forests and desolate areas where ordinary networks are not easily available; and in emergencies, such as natural disasters or network outages, where an alternative means of contact could become possible.

Even so, it is not yet clear what kind of mobile phone the actual service will run on, whether special hardware will be needed, and which calling and internet features will be available.

If TRAI's proposal is approved and telecom companies develop the necessary technology, network coverage could improve. The facility could prove important especially in rural areas, for travellers and for subscribers living in remote places.

But it cannot yet be said that satellite connectivity will deliver fast internet everywhere. No official details have been released on the launch date, the charges to subscribers, internet speed or the facilities available at the start.

The final decision on TRAI's recommendations rests with the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of the Union government. After that, further steps will follow in line with regulatory rules, spectrum-related provisions and the technical readiness of companies.

On the whole, satellite networks and Direct to Device technology could change the picture of mobile connectivity in India. But when ordinary people will get calling and internet directly from satellites without mobile towers will become clear only after the government's decision and implementation on the ground.