Banglalink has received approval from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to launch its Starlink Direct-to-Cell service, bringing satellite connectivity to 4G-enabled phones across Bangladesh.
The operator said the launch would make Bangladesh the first country in South Asia to offer Starlink Direct-to-Cell connectivity, according to a Banglalink announcement reported by The Business Standard.
With the service, customers using 4G-enabled phones will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites wherever Direct-to-Cell coverage is available, with no special handset, satellite dish or additional equipment. Banglalink said the service requires no extra installation or setup, and all subscribers with compatible 4G phones will have access where coverage exists.
At launch, the service will support SMS and data-based messaging, with satellite connectivity also intended to facilitate internet-based communication services.
Carriers around the world have been adopting the direct-to-cell model. Rogers’ Starlink satellite mobile service in Canada went live commercially after a beta, while T-Mobile’s Starlink-powered T-Satellite has brought satellite data and calling to phones in the U.S. One NZ became the first carrier in the world to offer Starlink-powered cellular service back in December. The Banglalink approval arrived the same day Airtel Starlink in Uganda launched, offering 30 days of free satellite connectivity to phones outside cell coverage.
Direct-to-cell technology provides connectivity in areas beyond traditional terrestrial networks, including the sea, remote islands, coastal communities and hill tracts. Banglalink said fishermen at sea, remote communities and travelers in dead zones could remain connected, while the service could also help people reach family members or call for help during cyclones, floods and electricity outages.
The regulatory approval followed Banglalink’s proof-of-concept testing of the technology in Bangladesh, which included demonstrations of SMS, data-based messaging and internet-based voice communication to government and regulatory authorities.
Banglalink chief executive officer Johan Buse said the move focuses on people rather than technology. “This is ultimately about people, not technology. A fisherman far out at sea, a family in a remote area, or someone caught in a natural disaster should not have to worry about being beyond the reach of mobile services,” Buse said. “With Starlink, Banglalink is taking mobile connectivity beyond the boundaries of traditional networks and bringing it to more people, in more places, across Bangladesh,” he added.
No commercial launch date was announced. Banglalink said the approval marks a major step toward making mobile services more accessible and resilient while reducing geographic and infrastructure limits.
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