Starlink Direct to Cell

Overview

Satellite-to-phone service using 650+ dedicated satellites that act as cell towers in space, providing messaging, voice, data, and IoT connectivity to unmodified phones — commercial in the US since July 2025 as T-Mobile's T-Satellite and live with carrier partners worldwide.

Described in October 2025 as the world's largest 4G coverage provider. The next step is Starlink Mobile: direct-to-consumer service on the ~$17B EchoStar mid-band spectrum approved by the FCC in May 2026, with larger V2 direct-to-cell satellites expected via Starship.

Key Specs