ET Explainer: What is Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology? Does it work with existing handsets?
Elon Musk’s SpaceX, which plans to launch satcom services in India, earlier this week launched its first batch of Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability. The technology allows Starlink to deliver direct satellite broadband connectivity on smartphones anywhere on the planet.
The technology will also connect internet of things (IoT) devices with common LTE mobile standards. But what exactly is Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology? Will it work with existing smartphones, or will it require changes in device hardware? Here’s an ET Explainer by Kalyan Parbat on how Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology works.
How exactly does Starlink’s direct to cell technology work?
Starlink says its satellites with the ‘direct-to-cell’ capability have advanced modems onboard, known as eNodeBs.
These modems are similar to cell phone towers but operating in space. Once these satellites are in orbit, they instantly connect over a laser backhaul to Starlink’s low-earth-orbit (LEO) constellation to provide global connectivity.
Starlink satellites, loaded with the eNodeB modems, will then directly beam internet to smartphones in any location on the planet. The first batch of Starlink satellites with the direct-to-cell capability were launched on January 2 on SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket.
When will Starlink’s direct to cell satcom-on-mobile services be available?
As per Starlink’s website, texting will be available from 2024 itself.
Voice and data services, along with connectivity to IoT devices, will start from next year.
Is Starlink’s direct-to-cell technology compatible with current smartphones?
Starlink says the technology works with existing LTE phones (read: 4G and 5G phones) wherever the sky is visible. As per the company’s
