Official announcements from SpaceX and Starlink, media reports

SpaceX Starlink to Offer Free Global Emergency Mobile Access, Seeks FCC Clearance for Direct To Cell

Aug 27, 2024, 08:22 PM

Elon Musk's SpaceX has announced that its satellite internet service, Starlink, will offer free emergency services access for mobile phones globally. This initiative aims to provide emergency connectivity even in areas without traditional cellular service, subject to approval by country governments. The service will allow users to make emergency calls via mobile phones, even in cellular dead zones. SpaceX is seeking regulatory clearance from the FCC to implement this service, which could significantly impact the telecommunications industry by providing wireless emergency alerts to all users, including non-T-Mobile customers. The move is part of Starlink's broader strategy to expand its market share by offering internet and mobile services directly to subscriber phones.