BSNL launches IoT service: All you need to know

BSNL announced the launch of an Internet of Things (IoT) satellite system service that can be used throughout India where there are no cell towers, including the seas within the jurisdiction of the region. It is the world's first satellite-based narrowband-IoT network, the state-run telecom company said.

The service has been launched in partnership with US-based firm Skylo, which has developed the device for use in India.

This new 'Made in India' Solution built indigenously by Skylo, will link to the satellite ground infrastructure of BSNL and provide coverage PAN-India, including Indian seas. The coverage will be so massive that no dark patch will be left within the boundaries of India, from Kashmir &Ladakh to Kanyakumari, and from Gujarat to the North East, including the Indian Seas.

According to a BSNL official, the device developed by Skylo will be provided only through the state-run firm at a price of around Rs 10,000 a unit. The square-shaped device can be carried by users across any part of the country and can be connected with their smartphones for two-way communication.

"The approach is in line with BSNL's vision to harness technology to deliver affordable and creative telecom services and products across consumer segments.

BSNL Chairman and Managing Director P K Purwar said in a statement, "Skylo would also help provide critical data for the logistics sector to enable effective distribution of COVID-19 vaccine in 2021 and will be a big contributor in service to the nation,"

"Successful POCs (proof of concepts) have already been conducted by BSNL and Skylo in India and we will soon approach various user groups before the New Year 2021 begins," VivekBanzal, BSNL Board Director (CFA), said.

ParthasarathyTrivedi, CEO, and co-founder of Skylo said that industries, including agriculture, rail, and fisheries, have been working offline for decades, and have not had the chance to take full advantage of the latest developments in artificial intelligence and IoT to date.

"This is the world's first satellite-based NB-IoT network and I am proud to launch this capability in India first to transform lives and our domestic industries," Trivedi said.