Reliance Group's digital services company, Jio Platforms Limited, has agreed with SpaceX to provide Starlink's broadband internet services in India. However, the partnership will only take effect once SpaceX receives the necessary approval to sell Starlink in the country.

This announcement comes just a day after Jio's competitor, Bharti Airtel, signed a similar deal with SpaceX, signalling growing competition in the satellite internet sector in India.

Jio stated that its collaboration with SpaceX is a major step toward expanding high-speed broadband connectivity across the country, especially in remote and underserved areas. The company said that this partnership aligns with its goal of providing seamless and reliable internet access to millions of people, helping bridge the digital divide in India.

Reliance Jio's Group CEO, Mathew Oommen, said that integrating Starlink into Jio's broadband network will expand its reach and improve the reliability and accessibility of high-speed internet in this AI-driven era. This move aims to empower both communities and businesses across India.

Under the agreement, Jio and SpaceX will work together to explore how Starlink can enhance Jio’s broadband services and how Jio can support SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumers and businesses. Jio will make Starlink’s broadband solutions available through its retail stores and online platforms, ensuring wider accessibility for customers.

With this partnership, Jio, the world’s largest mobile operator by data traffic, and Starlink, the leading low Earth orbit satellite service provider, will collaborate to provide reliable broadband connectivity across India, including rural and remote areas.

Also, Jio will not only sell Starlink equipment in its retail stores but also set up a system to assist customers with installation, activation, and after-sales support. Jio said that its partnership with SpaceX aligns with its goal of making reliable internet accessible to businesses, enterprises, and communities across India.

The company stated that Starlink will serve as a valuable addition to Jio’s broadband services, including JioAirFiber and JioFiber, by enabling fast and affordable internet access in even the most remote and challenging locations.

Beyond broadband expansion, Jio and SpaceX are also exploring additional opportunities to collaborate, leveraging their combined infrastructure to further strengthen India’s digital landscape.

Expressing enthusiasm about the partnership, SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell said, “We appreciate Jio’s dedication to enhancing India’s connectivity. We look forward to working together and securing the necessary approvals to bring Starlink’s high-speed internet to more people, businesses, and organizations across the country.”

You might also be interested in - Pieces of Starlink satellites are falling back to earth, impacting ozone layer | Explained