In a big step forward for global mobile coverage, SpaceX has completed deployment of its first-generation Starlink Direct to Cell satellite constellation. The company made the announcement via its Starlink division’s official X (formerly Twitter) account on Friday, congratulating the SpaceX team on reaching this milestone.
Starlink Direct to Cell aims to eliminate mobile dead zones across the globe by providing satellite connectivity anywhere and everywhere. SpaceX secured a commercial Federal Communications Commission (FCC) license to launch the service in the U.S. late last year.
What’s special about Starlink Direct to Cell is that it doesn’t require users to buy any new hardware. Your regular, unmodified smartphone will be able to connect directly to Starlink satellites, allowing you to send texts, make calls, and eventually even access the internet—no cell towers needed.
By working with mobile carriers around the world, SpaceX aims to close the gap in coverage, especially in remote and rural regions where connectivity is either poor or nonexistent. That includes places like hiking trails, remote highways, and areas hit by natural disasters where traditional infrastructure might be down.
SpaceX is already offering a Starlink Direct to Cell text messaging service in beta, in collaboration with partners like T-Mobile in the U.S. Voice and internet services are expected to follow sometime this year.
The completion of the first-gen satellite network puts Starlink Direct to Cell on track for a full commercial launch soon. SpaceX hasn’t named its Canadian partners yet, but given how rural Canada is, we can expect big interest for Starlink Direct to Cell north of the border. Stay tuned.
