Telecom
SpaceX Launches First Cell Service Satellites With T-Mobile
- Starlink satellites capable of connecting to normal phones
- Companies racing toward service via cell towers in space
The SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket takes off with “direct to Cell” satellites during the first launch of 2024, on Jan. 2.
Photographer: Allen J. Schaben/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images
Elon Musk’s SpaceX launched its first six satellites capable of offering mobile phone service as the company races to bring more connectivity to remote areas.
Operating like a cell tower in space, the Starlink satellites will work with users’ existing phones, rather than using specialized equipment, to enable text messaging in areas where traditional cell signals are weak or nonexistent. SpaceX will later be able to offer voice and data, said Kate Tice, senior quality systems engineering manager, on a webcast for the launch Tuesday.