Direct-to-cell
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Starlink, a division of SpaceX, has announced its plans to introduce Direct-to-Cell, a groundbreaking feature that uses its vast satellite network to allow voice calls on regular smartphones. What sets this apart is its simplicity—there’s no need for modifications to your device. As long as your phone is LTE-compatible, you’re ready to connect.
This innovation could fundamentally change how we think about mobile communication. Imagine being able to make calls from the remotest corners of the Earth—whether you’re deep in a rainforest, sailing in the middle of the ocean, or trekking across deserts—with no cell towers in sight. Starlink’s satellite system makes this scenario entirely possible.
According to a letter sent by SpaceX to the FCC, the service has already proven successful with devices from major brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google. Tests confirmed smooth communication using the PCS G Block spectrum, across urban and rural areas, indoors and outdoors, and even under tree cover or clear skies.Crucially, SpaceX emphasizes that any LTE-enabled smartphone will work with this technology—no hardware upgrades required. Even slightly older models like the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14 can benefit from this satellite connectivity, proving that cutting-edge communication doesn’t have to leave older devices behind.
One of the most significant advantages of Starlink’s service is its flexibility. Unlike traditional satellite communication systems that often restrict users to preset messaging options, this new solution allows consumers to send fully customizable messages through their preferred platforms. In emergency situations, this added context could be life-saving, enabling users to clearly communicate their needs.
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This is frigging amazing and TIMELY… I’ve been thinking a lot about intercontinental communications with Luke in London this week.
It started with Luke being astounded that they wanted $12 per day for an international data plan this week. I laughed and told him it wasn’t too long ago that it was $4 per minute to London, and that when I was his age, it would have cost 20¢ per minute just to call somewhere 90 miles away… Then we decided to just use Facebook Messenger when he’s somewhere with WiFi access for video calls. It hit me just how absurd it is that we can video call for free over the internet, but still have relatively high international calling rates. I think those days are coming to an end, but I don’t think people appreciate just how cheap communications have become over the last 30 years…
The Brad
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This is frigging amazing and TIMELY… I’ve been thinking a lot about intercontinental communications with Luke in London this week.
It started with Luke being astounded that they wanted $12 per day for an international data plan this week. I laughed and told him it wasn’t too long ago that it was $4 per minute to London, and that when I was his age, it would have cost 20¢ per minute just to call somewhere 90 miles away… Then we decided to just use Facebook Messenger when he’s somewhere with WiFi access for video calls. It hit me just how absurd it is that we can video call for free over the internet, but still have relatively high international calling rates. I think those days are coming to an end, but I don’t think people appreciate just how cheap communications have become over the last 30 years…
@LuFins-Dad said in Direct-to-cell:
This is frigging amazing and TIMELY… I’ve been thinking a lot about intercontinental communications with Luke in London this week.
It started with Luke being astounded that they wanted $12 per day for an international data plan this week. I laughed and told him it wasn’t too long ago that it was $4 per minute to London, and that when I was his age, it would have cost 20¢ per minute just to call somewhere 90 miles away… Then we decided to just use Facebook Messenger when he’s somewhere with WiFi access for video calls. It hit me just how absurd it is that we can video call for free over the internet, but still have relatively high international calling rates. I think those days are coming to an end, but I don’t think people appreciate just how cheap communications have become over the last 30 years…
Good points. I remember when I first went to Europe I called home and didn’t realize until later it cost like $35. Now my brother in Denmark calls me for free via “FaceTime audio”.
