Starlink has launched a new website page named “Direct To Cell”. This is a new service that will soon be launched and will give users “Seamless access to text, voice, and data for LTE phones across the globe”. Starlink satellites with Direct Cell capabilities that will soon be launched will give users ubiquitous access to texting, calling, and browsing.
It doesn’t matter whether you are on land, lakes, or coastal waters it will work easily. Existing LTE phones don’t require any special app, software, or hardware change for access, the page mentions.
NEWS: SpaceX has launched a 'Direct To Cell' website page.
Starlink satellites with Direct to Cell capabilities enable ubiquitous access to texting, calling, and browsing wherever you may be on land, lakes, or coastal waters:
• Starting in 2024: Text
• Starting in 2025: Voice… https://t.co/Dfa77tCxa0 pic.twitter.com/mgJUJJ4j4r— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) October 11, 2023
The satellites with Direct Cell capability will have an advanced eNodeB modem that works as a cellphone tower in space. As per the representation shown on the website the satellite will remain connected with the unmodified cell phone and Starlink Ground network. This ground network will be connected with the partner operator network that will enable users to talk, text, or send data.
SpaceX will soon launch a Falcon 9 rocket carrying Direct to Cell satellites and then Starship will carry it to low orbit space. The page has listed the global partners which include T-Mobile (USA), Optus(Australia), Roger(Canada), ONE NZ(New Zealand), Kiddi(Japan), and Salt(Switzerland).
