Viasat Launches Phone Service, Pitches Satellite-VoIP Combo

Viasat has a new cloud-based phone service for SMBs.

The satellite internet provider on Wednesday announced Viasat Business Voice, which works on the company’s satellite network. Company executives said the new offering helps businesses stay competitive.

Viasat’s Cody Catalena

“Businesses like restaurants, boutiques, professional and personal services, public administration, construction and more no longer need to settle for traditional, expensive landline phone service or unreliable cell coverage to scale business communications,” said Cody Catalena, vice president and general manager of Viasat’s global business solutions. “Viasat is committed to bringing enterprise-quality communication services to SMB customers where cable and fiber are unable to provide service.”

Viasat is pitching the phone service as an opportunity for businesses to increase efficiency and cut costs. The company cited a FinancesOnline study, which found that switching from landline to VoIP can net up to a 75% cost reduction.

The service features a dialing mobile app, network prioritization, three-way calling, and a maximum of four voice lines. Customers can add the phone offering to their Viasat Business Internet service for $25 per month.

Viasat partners with a number of master agents, including Intelisys and TBI. These partners last fall gained the ability to sell the internet service internationally.

Earlier this year, Viasat partner TCG discussed the implications of using VoIP over satellite internet. Although some critics have cast doubt on the combination of voice and satellite, TCG’s Kevin Zimmerman shared positive results.

Earlier this month Viasat celebrated the nine-year anniversary of launching its ViaSat-1 satellite.