Starlink has reapplied for India approval for its next-generation satellite network, which could eventually let mobile phones connect directly to satellites
Elon Musk’s Starlink has reapplied to India’s space regulator for approval to deploy its second-generation satellite network, with the plan also covering technology that could allow mobile phones to connect directly to satellites, The Economic Times reported on Thursday, citing people familiar with the matter.
The application seeks approval for nearly 30,000 satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), the report said, adding that Starlink is also seeking authorisation for its Gen 2 constellation, which would offer newer capabilities, including direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.
The move comes as India works on rules for satellite communications and considers opening up more spectrum for the sector.
What is direct-to-device connectivity?
D2D technology allows compatible mobile phones and other devices to communicate with satellites without needing a conventional satellite dish or ground-based mobile tower.
In simple terms, this could mean that a person in an area without mobile network coverage may still be able to connect through a satellite, provided the device and service are supported.
Such technology could be particularly useful in remote and difficult-to-reach areas, where building mobile towers or laying fibre networks can be expensive or impractical.
More from BusinessStarlink has been developing satellite-to-phone services as part of its broader expansion into mobile connectivity.
Why is Starlink applying again?
According to ET, Starlink had earlier sought approval for both its first- and second-generation satellite constellations in India.
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre, or IN-SPACe, approved the company’s Gen 1 constellation in July 2025. The network consists of 4,408 low Earth orbit satellites and is designed to provide traditional broadband services.
However, an earlier application for the Gen 2 constellation was rejected because some of its features and proposed spectrum bands did not conform to Indian requirements, the report said.
Starlink has now reapplied with its newer plans.
The company plans to deploy around 42,000 satellites globally for its Gen 2 network, but has sought approval in India for nearly 30,000 satellites, according to ET.
The application covers satellites operating at an altitude of roughly 340 km to 615 km above Earth.
Why does this matter for India?
India has a large population but wide variations in access to high-speed internet. While mobile and fibre networks cover most populated areas, connectivity remains more difficult in remote regions, including mountainous and sparsely populated locations.
Satellite broadband could help fill those gaps.
D2D connectivity could go a step further by allowing satellite networks to supplement mobile networks directly. Instead of requiring a separate satellite terminal, users could potentially connect through compatible phones.
For consumers, this could eventually mean connectivity in places where a normal mobile signal is unavailable.
However, such services would depend on the rules India puts in place and the spectrum made available to satellite operators.
Starlink faces rivals in India
Starlink is not the only company seeking a share of India’s satellite communications market. Amazon’s satellite business, Amazon Leo, and Eutelsat OneWeb are also competing in the sector.
But satellite operators still face regulatory hurdles before commercial services can begin at scale.
Companies need authorisation from IN-SPACe, while spectrum allocation and security clearances are also key requirements.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has already issued recommendations on spectrum pricing for satellite communications. The government has yet to take a final decision.
At the same time, consultations on direct-to-device services are under way.
Telecom companies raise concerns
Traditional telecom operators have raised concerns over D2D services.
They have argued that satellite companies should face comparable regulatory obligations if they are allowed to provide mobile connectivity directly to consumers.
The concern is that satellite operators could eventually compete with conventional telecom networks without facing the same costs and regulatory requirements.
India will therefore have to balance the benefits of better connectivity with issues around competition, spectrum use and national security.
The US, Canada and Australia are among the countries that have moved towards allowing satellite services to supplement mobile coverage.
What happens next?
Starlink’s fresh application is an important step, but it does not mean that direct-to-phone satellite services are about to become available in India.
The company still needs regulatory approval, while spectrum allocation and the government’s eventual rules for D2D services will determine how the technology can be offered.
For now, Starlink’s renewed application signals that Musk’s company remains keen to enter one of the world’s largest communications markets.
If approved, its larger Gen 2 network and direct-to-device technology could mark a significant change in how people access connectivity, particularly in areas where conventional mobile networks cannot reach.
