Starlink debuts direct-to-cell service
Elon Musk’s Space X is redefining global mobile communication dynamics and it debuts direct satellite to mobile service.
The satellite company has launched six Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability to eliminate mobile dead zones.
This means mobile phones can connect directly to the satellite, skipping the need for traditional cell towers. Instead of connecting to a nearby cell tower, your phone communicates directly with Starlink satellites orbiting in space.
This makes it possible for mobile connectivity to work in remote areas and other places where traditional networks reach poorly or not at all.
Users won’t need to upgrade their phones as the service is designed to seamlessly integrate with existing 4G-enabled devices.
Musk also clarified that Starlink’s satellite service is not positioned to compete with traditional terrestrial mobile networks, as the satellites only support 7 MB per satellite beam.
According to Starlink, the satellites will offer basic texting this year and will expand to voice, data, and Internet of Things (IoT) by 2025.
During the initial testing phase of the direct-to-smartphone service, SpaceX’s Starlink will utilise the cellular spectrum provided by its U.S. mobile partner, T-Mobile. SpaceX has also partnered with mobile operators in Australia, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand, and Switzerland.
