In a groundbreaking development for global connectivity, SpaceX successfully launched the first set of Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability on January 3, 2024. This innovative technology, developed in partnership with T-Mobile, Salt Mobile, and KDDI, aims to provide seamless global access to texting, calling, and browsing, even in remote locations previously unreachable by traditional cell signals.
The launch included six Starlink satellites equipped with the new Direct to Cell capability. These satellites will work in conjunction with mobile network operators to provide mobile phone connectivity worldwide. This advancement has the potential to eliminate dead zones and significantly improve connectivity for users in remote areas or during natural disasters.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk emphasized the importance of this launch, stating, “This is a major step forward in our mission to provide global connectivity and eliminate dead zones. We are excited to work with our partners to bring this game-changing technology to people around the world.”
T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert echoed Musk’s sentiments, adding, “This launch is a testament to our commitment to providing our customers with the best possible service, no matter where they are. We are proud to be part of this collaboration and look forward to the positive impact it will have on our customers’ lives.”
The launch of these satellites marks a significant milestone in the effort to improve global connectivity and bring reliable communication services to underserved areas. As SpaceX continues to work with its partners to expand this technology, users can look forward to a future where cellular dead zones are a thing of the past.
This will allow for mobile phone connectivity anywhere on Earth.
Note, this only supports ~7Mb per beam and the beams are very big, so while this is a great solution for locations with no cellular connectivity, it is not meaningfully competitive with existing terrestrial… https://t.co/ymHpw8XBHl
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) January 3, 2024
