Commerce Reporter :
DHAKA, Oct 7: Banglalink today launched its satellite-to-mobile service powered by Starlink, enabling customers to access essential apps and location services beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks.
For the service, customers need only a 4G phone and a Banglalink SIM, the operator said.
The launch makes Bangladesh the first country in South Asia to introduce the service.
The satellite network is expected to help customers stay connected during emergencies, natural disasters and prolonged power outages when conventional networks may be disrupted.
The service will particularly benefit fishermen, people working at sea, travellers and communities in remote and coastal areas, including deep-sea locations within Bangladesh’s Exclusive Economic Zone.
To make the service accessible, Banglalink is offering Starlink internet free with any internet or mixed bundle pack for the first month of launch. From the second month, customers will continue to receive Starlink internet at no additional cost with selected monthly internet and mixed bundle packs.
Customers will also receive five free SMS messages every month for use over the satellite network.
Banglalink CEO Johan Buse said, “Connectivity is ultimately about people. It is about a family being able to hear from a loved one, a fisherman being able to send a message home, or someone in a remote area knowing they can still reach someone when they need help.”
“With Satellite-to-Mobile, we are bringing connectivity to more people and more places across Bangladesh. Distance should not have to mean disconnection. This is what being a digital operator means to us, using technology to make a real difference in people’s everyday lives,” he added.
