Elon Musk’s Starlink, the internet company, has announced its plans to provide mobile phones with direct satellite connectivity services.

According to the information on its website, Starlink will roll out this service, starting with texting in 2024. Voice, data, and IoT (Internet of Things) services are expected to follow in 2025.

Importantly, current 4G-enabled devices will be compatible with this new service, eliminating the need for users to change their phones.

Starlink will deploy new satellites that function like telecom base stations, enabling communication services worldwide.

However, to deliver this service in any country, the company must secure a mobile operating license.

This development could extend communication services to remote and underserved areas globally.

The company explained “Starlink satellites with Direct to Cell capabilities enable ubiquitous access to texting, calling, and browsing wherever you may be on land, lakes, or coastal waters,”

“Direct to Cell works with existing LTE phones wherever you can see the sky. No changes to hardware, firmware, or special apps are required, providing seamless access to text, voice, and data.”

To launch this service, SpaceX, Starlink’s parent company, will use its extensive experience in manufacturing and launching advanced rockets and spacecraft.

Starlink’s satellites with Direct to Cell capability will be initially launched aboard SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket and subsequently on Starship.

The satellites will connect via laser backhaul to the Starlink constellation, providing global connectivity.

While Starlink is currently promoting this new functionality to business partners, the service will allow network integration similar to standard roaming partners.

This feature will provide connectivity in remote regions where traditional cellular coverage may not be viable.

In the United States, Starlink has already signed an agreement with T-Mobile. T-Mobile expects to offer text coverage across various regions, including the continental US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska, Puerto Rico, and territorial waters.

Starlink’s introduction of satellite-to-phone coverage opens up new use cases, including emergency services through texting.

A similar satellite service called Emergency SOS is currently available to iPhone users.