BSNL to Challenge Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel With D2D Technology

State-run telecom company Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) had showcased the direct-to-device (D2D) technology at the India Mobile Congress last month. With this, calls can be made without mobile network or SIM card. BSNL has started the trial of D2D service.

With this service, mobile devices like smartphones can be connected through satellite network. It does not require mobile network. BSNL has successfully trialled D2D service in partnership with Viasat. With this, users will soon be able to make audio and video calls between devices without a SIM card. Big telecom companies like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio are also developing services related to satellite connectivity.

BSNL has added new subscribers in every month of the last quarter. Recently, Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia had said that the number of subscribers of the company has increased by 60 lakhs in the last quarter. BSNL has also been earning operating profit for the last two years. Scindia had said that BSNL telephone service is available even in remote villages of the country. It is improving its services with network upgrades. Scindia said, “It is very easy to set up your own network by taking equipment from another company. I completely understand this because your business is not about making equipment. Your business is about providing service. BSNL has chosen the difficult path.” We are making Indian equipment and will provide 4G service to each of our subscribers.” BSNL has also made preparations to install ATM like machines to make SIM cards easily available.

With this, BSNL users will be able to get the SIM card through these machines or self-care app. These vending machines will be installed at busy places like railway stations and airports. This will make it easier for the company to increase the number of its customers. These SIM vending machines will be especially helpful for those people who do not want to go to BSNL offices or exchanges. The company also plans to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to curb spam calls on its mobile network.