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SpaceX Launches First Batch of Starlink Satellites with "Direct to Cell" for T-Mobile Service

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Jan 3, 2024, 11:51 AM by Rich Brome

T-Mobile is one step closer to offering 100% nationwide coverage — even in the most remote areas — using SpaceX's Starlink satellite network. Last night, SpaceX successfully launched its first batch of Starlink satellites upgraded with Direct to Cell capabilities. This will enable existing 4G LTE cell phones to connect directly to Starlink and receive service. T-Mobile plans to begin field testing the service "soon". Following successful testing, the service will launch "with text messaging, with voice and data coverage to follow in the coming years" as SpaceX launches more satellites with this capability. Other providers around the world have also signed up with SpaceX to use Starlink to expand coverage, "including Rogers (Canada), Optus (Australia), One NZ (New Zealand), KDDI (Japan), and others, with more to come." SpaceX and T-Mobile announced plans for this technology in 2022.

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