On Tuesday, SpaceX successfully launched a rocket containing the initial batch of Starlink satellites, which have the capability to transmit signals directly to smartphones from outer space.

In August 2022, Elon Musk’s company that focuses on space reached an agreement with cellular providers to offer network coverage to cell phone users in areas with poor reception through their Starlink satellites.

T-Mobile US has verified that this morning, the satellites were successfully launched into low-Earth orbit via a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.

According to a statement from T-Mobile, their direct-to-cell service will initially offer text messaging and will eventually expand to include voice and data services. However, satellite service will not be immediately accessible to T-Mobile customers as the company plans to conduct field testing in the near future.

Sara Spangelo, senior director of satellite engineering at SpaceX, states that the company intends to quickly increase the size of the project. She also mentions that the launch of the initial direct-to-cell satellites is a significant achievement for SpaceX in showcasing their technology.

According to Mike Katz, the president in charge of marketing, strategy, and products at T-Mobile, their new service was created with the intention of keeping users connected, even in areas that are difficult to reach. He expressed his hope that areas with no service would soon no longer be an issue.

Other wireless providers across the world, including Japan’s KDDI, Australia’s Optus, New Zealand’s One NZ and Canada’s Rogers will collaborate with SpaceX to launch direct-to-cell technology.

Reuters contributed reporting

Source: theguardian.com