Smart Communications tests satellite-to-phone emergency service in Batangas

Smart Communications and Lynk Global have expanded their direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity testing to Batangas, Philippines. The trials aim to evaluate how satellite technology can provide essential communication services during disasters when terrestrial mobile networks are disrupted by typhoons, power outages, or other infrastructure damage.

The testing includes simulating disaster scenarios to assess satellite-enabled cell broadcasts for emergency alerts and public safety messages. The companies are also testing two-way communication capabilities, such as sending SMS messages via satellite to standard mobile phones in areas where cellular towers are offline. This technology is intended to provide a backup communication layer for rural, hard-to-reach, and maritime locations without requiring users to possess specialized satellite handsets.