SpaceX’s Starlink has launched direct-to-phone technology to eliminate dead zones worldwide and enhance mobile connectivity.
In Short
- Starlink launches direct-to-cell satellite tech
- The tech aims to eliminate dead zones anywhere around the world
- Major telecoms collaborate with SpaceX
SpaceX’s Starlink has recently announced the launch of its groundbreaking direct-to-cell satellite communications. The technology is defined to enable direct connections from Starlink satellites to smartphones, bypassing traditional cell towers and providing connectivity in areas with no coverage. With this launch, the team also announced that several significant telecoms are collaborating with the company. Elon Musk has confirmed the list by reposting the following post.
What is Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell?
This technology marks a milestone, enabling direct satellite-to-smartphone connections without traditional cell towers. This breakthrough ensures seamless communication in areas without coverage and is expected to roll out further in 2025.
In addition to expanding mobile coverage, Direct to Cell will enable ubiquitous Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity outside terrestrial coverage, connecting millions of devices across critical global industries. SpaceX claims that no specialised or additional hardware is required. Users are expected to benefit from uninterrupted connectivity during emergencies, in rural regions, or while travelling in areas typically plagued by dead zones. This innovation aims to bridge the digital divide, offering global coverage and enhancing communication reliability worldwide.
With the introduction of next-generation Starlink satellites in the coming months, the company aims to deliver speeds exceeding 2 Mbps. The ongoing expansion underscores SpaceX’s commitment to creating a comprehensive satellite network to bridge the digital divide.
SpaceX is leveraging its experience in manufacturing and launching the world’s most advanced rockets and spacecraft to deploy Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability at scale. Direct-to-cell satellites will initially be launched on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket and then Starship. On orbit, the satellites will immediately connect over laser backhaul to the Starlink constellation to provide global connectivity. Hence, this tech is notably the future of technology.
