Official announcements from SpaceX or Starlink, verified by space industry news outlets

Starlink's DTC Service to Connect 2.6 Billion with T-Mobile, Rogers, One NZ, KDDI, Optus, Salt

Nov 24, 2024, 03:15 PM

Starlink, a satellite internet service by SpaceX, is set to revolutionize global connectivity with its Direct-to-Cell (DTC) service. This service allows mobile phones to connect directly to satellites, bypassing traditional cell towers in areas with no coverage. Major telecommunications companies like T-Mobile in the U.S., Rogers in Canada, One NZ in New Zealand, KDDI in Japan, Optus in Australia, and Salt in Switzerland have partnered with Starlink to launch this service. The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide by providing internet access to approximately 2.6 billion people globally who remain disconnected, representing about 33% of the world's population. Starlink's satellite constellation for DTC requires only one more launch to be completed, enhancing its potential to serve as a resilient internet solution even in scenarios where traditional infrastructure is compromised. Users can also connect using a Starlink mini with a solar panel for power.