The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) announced on Monday that it has granted China Unicom a license to operate satellite mobile communication services, enabling the carrier to deliver direct-to-cell satellite coverage for emergencies, maritime traffic and remote regions.

In a related development, China Telecom had previously obtained the license and launched the satellite-to-mobile services in 2023. China Mobile currently only offers satellite-based short messaging services using the BeiDou system, primarily in areas without network coverage. The carrier is actively applying for a license from the MIIT to expand into direct-to-cell satellite services.

Last month, the MIIT released new guidelines aimed at optimizing market access and promoting high-quality development in the satellite communication sector.

By 2030, the country plans to improve the management system, policies and regulations for satellite communication and optimize its industrial development environment. It also plans to boost the integrated development of infrastructure, industrial supply, technical standards and international cooperation.

The guidelines support the rapid development of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet by state-owned enterprises, encourage telecom operators to roll out satellite direct-to-device services, and promote private sector participation in emerging areas like the satellite Internet of Things.

As the country's satellite-mobile supply chain accelerates commercialization, the ministry said it expects a competitive yet collaborative market that will make satellite connectivity more accessible to everyday consumers.

It also called for closer coordination between telecom operators and upstream-downstream partners to drive industrial upgrades and strengthen the resilience and security of the entire supply chain.

(With input from Xinhua)