SpaceX’s Satellite-to-Cell Starlink Service Hits Nationwide Coverage Milestone in New Zealand
One NZ, a telecommunications company, has announced that it has become the first global provider to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via SpaceX’s Starlink network. This milestone marks a significant achievement for One NZ and demonstrates the potential of satellite technology to bridge gaps in mobile connectivity.
Partnerships with Other Countries
Starlink has already partnered with several countries, including Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile. In addition, T-Mobile in the US is also partnering with Starlink to provide a beta service for its customers. This expansion of partnerships highlights the growing interest in satellite technology as a means to improve mobile connectivity.
Limitations and Eligibility
At present, only four phone models are supported by the One NZ Satellite TXT service: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. However, eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year as the technology continues to develop.
Initial Rollout Experience
During the initial rollout of the One NZ Satellite TXT service, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes. However, this time may increase to "10 minutes or longer" during the first few months as the service is tested and refined. According to One NZ’s Experience and Commercial Director Joe Goddard, "We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better. For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
Rollout Strategy
The rollout of the One NZ Satellite TXT service is being implemented in a staggered manner, with a small number of phones initially supported. This approach allows for testing and fine-tuning of the technology before expanding it to more devices.
Future Plans
In addition to text messaging, One NZ expects voice calling and data services to also be available through the Starlink network in the future. The company is committed to improving its satellite-to-cell service, with the goal of providing seamless connectivity for its customers.
Free Service for Existing Customers
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will be required to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
Previous Pilot Program with T-Mobile
Starlink’s text-by-satellite service was previously piloted with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in October. The pilot program demonstrated the effectiveness of satellite technology in providing mobile connectivity during times of crisis.
FCC Approval for US Service
In November, T-Mobile was granted FCC approval for its Starlink beta program. This development is a significant step forward for T-Mobile’s customers, who will soon have access to a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink.
Next Steps
T-Mobile has announced that it will begin signing up customers for the US Starlink beta program "early next year." This marks an exciting milestone in the rollout of satellite-to-cell technology and demonstrates the growing commitment of major telecom companies to providing innovative solutions for their customers.
The success of One NZ’s Satellite TXT service and T-Mobile’s partnership with Starlink highlight the potential of satellite technology to bridge gaps in mobile connectivity. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how these partnerships develop and expand in the future.
Key Takeaways:
- One NZ has become the first global provider to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via SpaceX’s Starlink network.
- The service is currently available for only four phone models but is expected to expand to more devices next year.
- Most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes, although this time may increase during the initial rollout.
- The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans.
- T-Mobile has been granted FCC approval for its Starlink beta program and will begin signing up customers "early next year."
- The partnership between Starlink and major telecom companies highlights the growing interest in satellite technology as a means to improve mobile connectivity.
