SpaceX launched a rocket containing the very first set of satellites Starlink designed for transmit satellite connection directly to smartphones from space. The launch on Tuesday 02 January, with Falcon 9 rockets, marks the beginning of a new project for Elon Musk’s company.
Starlink launches satellites for smartphone satellite connection
Elon Musk’s company signed an agreement in August 2022 with important operatori wireless to offer users in remote areas, where connectivity is limited or absent, access to the network via the Starlink satellite network. One of the partners involved, T-Mobile US, confirmed to The Guardian that the satellites had successfully arrived low earth orbit thanks to SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets.
T-Mobile explained that it will initially use these satellites to send messages. Later, voice calls and finally internet access will also arrive in the next few years. However, first you will have to carry out “field test” to evaluate the connection of SpaceX satellites.
Sara Spangelo, SpaceX’s senior director of satellite engineering, said the company plans to rapidly expand this innovative project. “The launch of these first direct-to-cell satellites represents an exciting milestone for SpaceX, a demonstration of our technology,” she said.
Mike Katz, president of marketing, strategy and products at T-Mobile, explained that the service is for keep users connected even in the most remote locations. He expressed hope that areas currently without coverage will become “a thing of the past”.
In addition to T-Mobile US, other major wireless providers in different parts of the world are joining SpaceX to launch this direct-to-cell technology. Such as the Japanese KDDI, the Australian Optus, the New Zealand One NZ and the Canadian Rogers. Unlike projects like Boiled with Cat S75 (review here) e SOS via satellite su iPhone (our tests here), do not require particular hardware: they should allow online access to everyone, even where there is no terrestrial network. The launch of satellites is an important first step.
