Starlink finally kicks off its mobile service

© Rizky Ade Jonathan/Shutterstock.com

While it already connects homes, planes and boats via satellite, Starlink has also developed a mobile service called Direct-to-cell that allows communication directly on a smartphone, in dead zones. Starlink's Direct-to-cell satellites function like cell towers in space, to supplement carrier networks or to provide a backup network in the event of a natural disaster.

And this week marks the beginning of a new era since the American operator T-Mobile, Starlink's partner in the United States, has just opened registrations for its customers who wish to test this new Starlink service in beta (a beta that will begin in early 2025). Initially, Starlink's mobile service will only support text messages, but calls and mobile data will arrive later. Otherwise, as part of the beta test, T-Mobile also indicates that it will prioritize certain profiles, such as first responders.

4G from space

In any case, it is important to note that unlike other satellite communication services, Direct-to-cell does not require special equipment. Normally, this service is compatible with 4G devices. Additionally, T-Mobile says users won't need to point their smartphones at the sky to send or receive messages. “Incoming and outgoing messages are sent and received like any other message,”, the carrier says.

200% Deposit Bonus up to €3,000 180% First Deposit Bonus up to $20,000

To offer this service, Starlink had to develop and deploy a completely new type of satellite. It also had to wait for the green light from the American authorities, which was obtained in November. Otherwise, it should also be remembered that Starlink has already temporarily deployed this mobile service to allow victims of hurricanes Helene and Milton to communicate.

Starlink already has partners in other countries

With this service, Starlink does not replace operators, but complements their networks by providing access to 4G in white areas. And while it works with T-Mobile in the United States, it already has other partnerships in other countries: Optus for Australia, Rogers for Canada, One NZ for New Zealand, KDDI for Japan, SALT for Switzerland, as well as Entel for Chile and Peru.

• Starlink has developed a new service that allows you to communicate directly with a smartphone, in dead zones
• In the United States, its partner T-Mobile is now allowing its customers to sign up for a beta program that will allow them to use this new service
• Direct-to-cell satellites act like cell phone towers in space
• And Starlink has already established other partnerships, with other operators, around the world

📍 To not miss any Presse-citron news, follow us on Google News and WhatsApp.

[ ]