SpaceX is Revolutionizing Mobile Communication
Under the leadership of Elon Musk, SpaceX has taken a groundbreaking step in mobile communication. The Starlink satellites developed by SpaceX have the capacity to directly send signals to mobile devices. This development will provide connectivity even in areas worldwide where phone signals do not reach.
Last Tuesday, 21 Starlink satellites were successfully placed in orbit by SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. These satellites will function as space-based base stations and will be compatible with existing LTE phones. According to SpaceX’s website, this technology will ensure seamless communication in text, voice, and data without requiring any hardware modifications or special applications, using a method called “Direct to Cell.”
In August 2022, SpaceX announced an agreement with T-Mobile, one of the leading mobile operators in the United States, to provide network connectivity to customers via Starlink. Last month, American authorities approved this satellite connection. Additionally, operators such as Canada’s Rogers and Japan’s KDDI are reportedly planning to use Starlink in areas where mobile networks are weak or non-existent.
It will take some time before the new technology is available to consumers. After T-Mobile’s direct-to-cell tests starting with SMS towards the end of this year, voice and data tests are expected to begin in 2025 and beyond.
There is currently no information on when and through which operators this technology will be introduced in Turkey. This development will particularly facilitate communication for those living in rural and hard-to-reach areas, expanding access to modern communication. While not Elon Musk’s “alternative” smartphone project, this step marks a significant innovation in the field of mobile communication.
Video shared by SpaceX‘s X account on the subject:
Falcon 9 launches 21 @Starlink satellites to orbit from California, including six with Direct to Cell capabilities → https://t.co/FgiJ7LOYdK pic.twitter.com/IKBkTSB63C
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 3, 2024
