The technology company SpaceX launched the first satellite for Starlink phone service. This satellite will be able to connect users to the space internet network if they cannot connect to mobile towers on the ground.
Starlink's direct-to-cell service will provide voice, text, and data connectivity to users by sending signals directly from space to their phones when they are in the 'dead zone', where mobile towers cannot reach them. Will be.
In partnership with phone carriers in the US, standard 4G LTE smartphones will be able to connect to the new StarLink network without any additional hardware or software.
View of last night’s @Starlink satellite deployment, including the first six with Direct to Cell capabilities pic.twitter.com/tjrWMJfqH4
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 3, 2024
According to the Starlink website, Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability will enable messaging, calling, and browsing from anywhere in the world.
The website further stated that Direct-to-Cell can work on existing LTE phones anywhere the sky can be seen. No hardware, firmware, or special app will be required for uninterrupted internet access.
In 2024, the service will provide text-only facilities, while call and data facilities will be introduced in 2025.