Starlink Satellite Internet Approved for U.S. Smartphones

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted SpaceX permission to offer satellite internet access to smartphones via a partnership with T-Mobile, reports TechCrunch.

The FCC describes the technology as “supplemental coverage from space” or “satellite internet service.” SpaceX and T-Mobile initially announced their plans for the service in summer 2022, targeting a 2023 launch.

SpaceX and T-Mobile originally announced their plans for satellite-based smartphone connectivity in the summer of 2022, aiming for a 2023 launch. While temporary use of the technology was permitted in October for emergency messaging during hurricanes, the FCC has now issued full authorization.

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Advantage: Experts see this as a major win for Starlink, enabling Elon Musk's company to introduce a commercial offering to the U.S. market ahead of competitors.
• Competitors: Although SpaceX faces rivals like Lynk—a provider of direct-to-smartphone satellite services—Lynk currently lacks U.S.-based commercial partners.
• Operational Restrictions: Satellite cellular services must still function as extensions of existing terrestrial networks under U.S. regulations.

Earlier this year, Starlink conducted a test video call using satellite internet. In October, SpaceX and T-Mobile facilitated the delivery of hundreds of thousands of text messages following Hurricanes Helen and Milton.

“We believe that SpaceX and T-Mobile's satellite internet initiatives will provide substantial benefits, including enhanced access to emergency services in areas where terrestrial networks fail to connect to 911. This has been demonstrated by SpaceX's provision of emergency satellite communication in hurricane-stricken regions.”

This approval positions Starlink as a frontrunner in the race to bring satellite-powered connectivity to American smartphones.