StarLink To Launch Direct-To-Cell Service In 2024

StarLink, the satellite cellular service owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX, is preparing to launch direct-to-cell connectivity for regular smartphones through a fleet of newly deployed satellites. StarLink is increasing its satellite operations this year with the aim of completing up to 100 flights in the next 150 days, and even more in 2024.

According to a SpaceX executive, the company plans to introduce direct-to-cell communications with StarLink by 2024, allowing text services initially.

"We're also going to look at direct-to-cell communications with Starlink, and that's a key feature that gets added next year with those 144 flights," said a SpaceX executive to Ars Technica.

By 2025, they expect to offer full-speed LTE service with speeds of 2MBPs. However, this will require larger satellites, which will be launched using SpaceX's Starship vehicle, the most ambitious rocket ever launched into space.

In the United States, StarLink has already partnered with T-Mobile to provide direct cell-to-satellite connectivity. T-Mobile's Magenta Max service will include access to StarLink without any additional fees, while customers on cheaper plans will have to pay a slightly higher fee for the service. StarLink has also secured partnerships with Optus in Australia, Rogers in Canada, KDDI in Japan, One NZ in New Zealand, and Salt in Switzerland.

Interestingly, StarLink intends to provide coverage not only on land but also over lakes and coastal waters. Even if users are in the middle of the ocean, they will have some form of connectivity. However, users will need to subscribe to the StarLink maritime service for this coverage. On land, StarLink aims to fill coverage gaps in areas where cell towers are not available, eliminating the need for additional infrastructure.

Overall, StarLink's expansion plans for direct-to-cell satellite connectivity show its commitment to revolutionising the way people access internet and cellular services, both on land and in remote locations.