Starlink expands satellite-to-mobile services globally

SpaceX has received approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide international telecommunications services, paving the way for the global expansion of Starlink Mobile. This Direct to Cell technology allows standard LTE smartphones to connect directly to satellites, acting as space-based cell towers to provide coverage in areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure.

In Uganda, Airtel Uganda has launched a satellite-to-mobile service in partnership with Starlink to extend connectivity to remote regions where terrain and distance make traditional tower installation difficult. The service initially enables messaging for compatible devices in areas without terrestrial coverage.

In India, Starlink has reapplied to the space regulator IN-SPACe for approval of its second-generation satellite network, which includes direct-to-device connectivity. The Indian government views this technology as a way to close connectivity gaps in mountainous, border, and island regions, as well as to improve communications during disasters.

SpaceX is preparing its Starlink Mobile V2 satellites, which are designed to broadcast 5G services from space with download speeds reaching up to 150 Mbps. This next-generation service aims to offer significantly higher throughput and global roaming capabilities across Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.