SingTel launches satellite-based broadband for Asia

The services will allow broadcasters and ISPs to provide services like video, voice and Net access to places that lack land-based telecommunications infrastructure.

The service will use SingTel's ST1 satellite. The footprint of the satellite covers Asia, although agreements have to be made with the regulators of individual countries before the service can be offered in their territories.

SingTel has spent S$3 million to develop the service, which is among the first of its kind in the region.

However, the telco expects to match that amount with the revenues from its first year.

The service is aimed at regional broadcasters, ISPs, government agencies and MNCs. SingTel told Business Times that it plans to sign up around 100 customers.