SpaceX today made a post on X (formerly Twitter) through a Direct to Cell satellite in orbit. The post is simple but it reflects the technology that the satellite has to offer.
Direct to Cell enables connectivity in remote regions using Starlink satellites but it is accessible for text, voice, and data for LTE phones around the globe. Customers won’t have to carry a Starlink dish or additional accessories to access DTC just subscribe and use.
SpaceX is slated to launch direct-to-cell text-based mobile services this year in the U.S. It be followed by voice and data and IoT services by next year.
The space rocket company started this year with the launch of 6 Direct to Cell satellites into Earth’s orbit using the Falcon 9 rocket. Since its launch, it has been testing connection streaming and technology verifications.
On January 10, the company collaborated with T-Mobile to conduct the first mobile-to-mobile SMS-based chat similar to an operator network connection.
Texts between two phones sent through our Direct to Cell satellites in space pic.twitter.com/jd8b7uiZSq
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 11, 2024
SpaceX has partnered with top mobile service providers in different markets and regions. These will gradually rollout the Direct to Cell services when it becomes commercially available.
(source – SpaceX)