SpaceX Deploys Satellites for Global Mobile Connectivity
SpaceX, under the leadership of Elon Musk, has successfully sent the initial set of satellites into orbit, aiming to establish global connectivity for mobile phone users. Among the 21 newly launched Starlink satellites, six specifically facilitate the implementation of the 'Direct to Cell' service, which was unveiled by the company in 2022.
"The six Starlink satellites on this mission with 'Direct to Cell' capability will further global connectivity and help to eliminate dead zones", the company posted on X. These satellites will allow SpaceX to conduct tests using regular 4G LTE-capable phones on the T-Mobile network in the United States, preceding the global launch of the text messaging service in multiple countries later this year.
SpaceX will then add voice and data (and IoT devices) later in 2025 as more D2C satellites come online. "This will allow for mobile phone connectivity anywhere on Earth", posted Musk. "Note, this only supports 7 MM 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 cellular networks", the tech billionaire explained.
The Starlink satellites equipped with Direct Cell functionalities ensure universal access to text messaging, calling, and internet browsing, offering connectivity across land, lakes, and coastal waters. Additionally, the Direct Cell feature will facilitate the connection of IoT devices using standard LTE protocols, as per the company's statement.
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