SpaceX Makes First Social Media Post Using Starlink Direct-to-Cell Satellites

SpaceX plans to launch its Direct-to-Cell service to customers later this year

Scarlett Evans, Assistant Editor, IoT World Today

February 27, 2024

1 Min Read
SpaceX launched the first six satellites in January
SpaceX launched the first six satellites in JanuaryGetty

SpaceX has posted its first status on X (formerly Twitter) using Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellite network in space.

“This post was sent through a SpaceX Direct to Cell satellite in space,” the company wrote on X.

View post on Twitter

Musk re-shared the post, adding that no special equipment was used to make the status. Only a mobile phone and satellite were used for the connection. 

View post on Twitter

The announcement comes a month after SpaceX sent its first text message using the satellite services and TMobile network spectrum.

SpaceX has said it aims to offer global satellite-enabled cell phone service with its network, bridging the digital divide by providing connectivity to previous dead zones. 

The company plans to launch its Direct-to-Cell service to customers later this year. 

SpaceX launched the first six satellites with the Direct-to-Cell feature at the beginning of this year, pitched as being able to offer voice, text and data services in remote areas with no terrestrial infrastructure. 

In total, the company aims to have a constellation of 21 satellites with the feature.

Musk previously noted that the service will not be “meaningfully competitive with existing terrestrial cellular networks,” but that it would be a “great solution” for locations with no cellular connectivity.

Related:SpaceX Launches First Direct-to-Smartphone Satellites

About the Author

Scarlett Evans

Assistant Editor, IoT World Today

Scarlett Evans is the assistant editor for IoT World Today, with a particular focus on robotics and smart city technologies. Scarlett has previous experience in minerals and resources with Mine Australia, Mine Technology and Power Technology. She joined Informa in April 2022.

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