In a significant achievement, SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell service, Starlink, has reached a nationwide coverage milestone in New Zealand. This feat is all the more remarkable considering that the service still has some limitations. One NZ, a telecommunications company, claims to be the first globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink.
Partnerships and Expansion
Starlink’s satellite-to-cell service has not only made waves in New Zealand but also secured partnerships with several countries around the world. These nations include Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile. Furthermore, Starlink has partnered with T-Mobile in the US, demonstrating its commitment to global expansion.
Supported Devices
However, there is a caveat to this nationwide coverage milestone. Currently, only four phone models are supported for use with the One NZ Satellite TXT service:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- OPPO Find X8 Pro
The eligibility of these devices is expected to expand to more models in the coming year. This expansion will undoubtedly make the service more accessible to a wider range of users.
Initial Rollout and Performance Expectations
One NZ has reported that most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes during the initial rollout. However, this time frame may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months. This is not uncommon for services in their early stages of development.
"We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better," said Joe Goddard, Experience and Commercial Director at One NZ. "For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
The company has emphasized that they are beginning with a small number of phones as part of the staggered rollout of the technology. This controlled approach is crucial in ensuring that the service meets the expectations of its users.
Future Plans and Availability
In the future, One NZ expects to expand its services beyond text messaging to include voice calling and data capabilities. The company’s vision for this satellite-to-cell service is ambitious, aiming to provide seamless communication to customers across New Zealand.
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.
Pilot Program and Future Developments
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 company received FCC approval for the service in November and is now signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program early next year.
The development of this satellite-to-cell service demonstrates the potential for innovative communication solutions in remote or underserved areas. As technology continues to advance, it will be exciting to see how these services expand and improve over time.
In conclusion, SpaceX’s Starlink satellite-to-cell service has made significant strides in New Zealand, marking a major milestone in its nationwide coverage. With partnerships around the world and an expanding range of supported devices, this service is poised for continued growth and improvement.