Inhabitants and visitors of China’s vast remote regions, from high-altitude plateaus to arid deserts, have been facing significant challenges in staying connected due to the limited coverage of 4G signals – which is currently at just 30% across the country’s expansive western territories. But Beijing-based startup Netwing is making strides to address this tech void by releasing a consumer-grade satellite internet device, aiming to serve a market that’s been largely untapped until now.
The Device Making Connectivity Portable and Affordable
Netwing’s innovation lies in condensing basebands, power amplifiers, and antennas into a compact panel antenna that weighs a mere 4.5 kilograms and is sized akin to a speaker box. This equipment significantly reduces the cost, offering an alternative for about a tenth of the cost of traditional satellite antenna systems. With the intention to market this product towards the general public, Netwing has claimed the title of launching China’s first C-end market-oriented satellite-based internet device.
Comparing Global Giants
When pondering over civilian satellite internet services, global behemoths like Starlink might come to mind. While Netwing and Starlink’s terminal products share similarities in terms of functionality, Netwing is still in its infancy, especially when compared to Starlink’s impressive 3 million users and annual revenues surpassing $6 billion. Striving to replicate similar success domestically, Netwing has taken its first steps in a market that’s virtually a clean slate in China.
Overcoming Industry Monopolies
The satellite communication industry has traditionally been characteristically monopolistic, with high entry barriers both technically and financially, and aimed at serving government and military uses. Netwing, however, leveraging advancements such as high-throughput satellites which provide considerably higher capacity than traditional satellites, is determined to make an impact in the commercial sector. With their development, users like tourists and field workers can potentially gain access to efficient and portable internet service, enhancing their ability to stay connected even in the most isolated of locations.