Bangladesh has become the first country in South Asia to adopt satellite-to-mobile technology.
Mobile operator Banglalink has launched its new Starlink-powered satellite-to-mobile service to keep users connected even when traditional networks fail.
The new service allows customers with a standard 4G phone and a Banglalink SIM to access essential applications and location services.
Users do not need special equipment to connect to the satellite network.
To encourage adoption, the operator is offering the satellite connection for free with any internet or mixed bundle pack during the first month.
After that, the service will remain free with selected monthly bundles, along with five free SMS messages each month.
This technology helps people stay in touch during natural disasters, prolonged power outages, and other emergencies that knock out terrestrial towers.
It is designed to help fishermen, deep-sea workers, travelers, and remote coastal communities.
Banglalink Chief Executive Officer Johan Buse said the service aims to bridge the gap for people in hard-to-reach areas.
He noted that distance should not mean disconnection, especially when a fisherman needs to send a message home or someone in a remote area needs help.
The service extends coverage to deep-sea locations within the Exclusive Economic Zone of Bangladesh.