Starlink connection for smartphones: FCC grants SpaceX and T-Mobile approval
SpaceX and T-Mobile US may start connecting smartphones in dead spots directly via Starlink. The satellites are also allowed to fly lower.
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The US telecommunications regulator FCC has granted SpaceX and T-Mobile permission to supplement the existing mobile network in the USA with connections that are handled directly via satellites. The Federal Communications Commission announced this on Tuesday and added that SpaceX is now also allowed to operate satellites for its Starlink internet service at 340, 345, 350 and 360 kilometers. However, in order to avoid any interference with the International Space Station (ISS), billionaire Elon Musk's space company must coordinate with the US space agency NASA.
Schedule not met
SpaceX and T-Mobile US announced the collaboration more than two years ago; Starlink is supposed to step in for customers when there is no cell tower within range. With almost all current smartphones, it should then be possible to make contact with the outside world even in dead spots. According to the FCC, this has many advantages, including access to emergency numbers, where this is currently not possible. SpaceX and T-Mobile actually wanted to start beta testing in 2023, but this did not work out. SpaceX sent the first Starlink satellites intended for this purpose into space in January. The company is not allowed to offer the service itself, but only to supplement a provider's network.
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With "Direct to Cell", SpaceX could significantly increase the target group for its own satellite internet. At present, Starlink requires an antenna costing more than 400 euros to connect to the satellites. Other devices are then connected via WLAN, for example. The technology is therefore primarily aimed at people who live away from broadband connections and require a reliable, fast Internet connection on a permanent basis. So far, there is no information on the planned prices; the data rate is initially expected to be just 2 to 4 Mbit/s. In addition, a clear line of sight to the sky will be required so that the smartphone can establish a connection to the satellites.
(mho)
