China Launches Satellite Internet Service to Expand Global Connectivity The satellite internet industry in China has experienced rapid growth, marked by milestones such as launching the first high-orbit and medium-Earth-orbit communication satellites. Demonstrations of China’s satellite technology in Thailand have highlighted its global potential.
Satellite internet utilizes satellites in space as base stations, providing global internet access. This technology enables connectivity in remote areas like mountains, seas, and airborne environments.
Initially used for TV broadcasting and long-distance calls, satellite communication now focuses on personal broadband access. Yin Haoqiong from China Satellite Communications Co., Ltd., emphasizes its critical role during natural disasters and its expansion into airline wi-fi services, offering speeds comparable to 4G.
In Yunnan Province’s Yulong Naxi Autonomous County, satellite internet has transformed operations by enabling real-time data transmission over 500 km to monitoring centers. Geely’s Geespace has introduced vehicle satellite internet services, enhancing safety through emergency alerts during accidents.
China Mobile and telecom giants like Huawei have spearheaded satellite internet integration into various industries, from emergency response to maritime and industrial operations. The initiative includes direct satellite services for mobile phones, pioneered by China Telecom in 2023.
Internationally, China’s satellite internet has made strides, demonstrated by partnerships with Thailand’s Mahanakorn University of Technology in telemedicine applications. Government support and private sector investments have propelled China’s satellite internet market, projected to reach 44.7 billion yuan by 2025.
Liu Tun, a senior analyst, underscores the private sector’s role in driving economic growth and fostering independent innovation in China’s satellite internet industry.
