Banglalink has asked the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission for approval to commercially launch a satellite-to-mobile service using Starlink Direct-to-Cell technology, initially offering SMS and Lite Data connectivity in remote and hard-to-reach areas.
The application follows a proof-of-concept programme conducted with SpaceX, during which Banglalink says it completed the technical, operational and regulatory assessments required for commercial deployment.
The proposed service would operate under Banglalink’s existing Cellular Mobile Services Operator Licence and would allow compatible smartphones to connect directly to satellites without requiring a separate satellite terminal or dish.
Field demonstration completed in Cox’s Bazar
Banglalink said it conducted a field demonstration of the service in Cox’s Bazar on 2 and 3 August in the presence of BTRC officials and representatives from relevant law enforcement agencies.
According to the operator, the demonstration validated SMS and Lite Data connectivity as well as the generation of call detail records and IP detail records.
Banglalink also said the trial tested lawful interception readiness and geolocation mechanisms, both of which are important regulatory requirements for telecom services.
The company stated in an 12 August letter to the regulator that the proof-of-concept phase had successfully covered the necessary technical, operational and regulatory assessments.
Commercial service would begin with SMS and Lite Data
Banglalink is seeking approval to launch the service commercially with SMS as the initial capability, followed by Lite Data.
That approach reflects the current development path of many direct-to-device satellite systems, which typically begin with lower-bandwidth services before progressing toward more data-intensive applications.
The service is intended primarily for locations where terrestrial mobile coverage is unavailable or difficult to build.
Potential use cases include remote communities, coastal areas, maritime users and disaster-prone locations.
Satellite layer would complement terrestrial mobile networks
Direct-to-Cell technology allows compatible handsets to communicate directly with satellites that function, in effect, as mobile network towers in orbit.
This differs from conventional satellite broadband, which generally requires dedicated user equipment.
Banglalink said the model is intended to complement rather than replace its terrestrial mobile network.
That could extend coverage into locations where tower deployment, fibre backhaul or other terrestrial infrastructure is economically or geographically difficult.
Emergency and maritime connectivity are key use cases
Banglalink highlighted emergency communications as one of the strongest potential applications.
During floods, cyclones and other natural disasters, towers, power systems and fibre routes can be damaged or rendered unavailable.
A satellite-backed mobile layer could provide limited but important connectivity when terrestrial infrastructure is disrupted.
The company also identified fishermen and other maritime users as potential beneficiaries, particularly in areas beyond reliable coastal mobile coverage.
BTRC approval remains the next step
Banglalink has not yet commercially launched the service.
The operator is awaiting BTRC approval following the proof-of-concept phase.
Rehan Asad, telecom and ICT adviser to the prime minister, has indicated that the government is open to allowing new technologies, including satellite-based services, where they can improve telecom access and service quality.
If approved, Banglalink would add a satellite coverage layer to its existing mobile network infrastructure.
Why this matters
The application is significant because it moves direct-to-cell satellite connectivity in Bangladesh from technical testing toward potential commercial deployment.
For a country with coastal, riverine and disaster-prone geographies, D2C could provide coverage in places where terrestrial mobile networks are difficult to extend or vulnerable to disruption.
The technology could also strengthen network resilience by providing an additional communications layer during emergencies.
Editor’s note
The most important issue is the regulatory transition from trial to service.
Banglalink says it has already demonstrated not only connectivity but also capabilities such as lawful interception, geolocation and record generation, which are central to telecom compliance.
If BTRC approves commercial deployment, Bangladesh could become an important regional test case for how satellite and terrestrial mobile networks are integrated under an existing operator licence.
The initial service may be limited to SMS and Lite Data, but the strategic value lies in establishing the regulatory and technical foundation for broader direct-to-device connectivity later.
