Starlink Internet Is Now Accessible on Regular Smartphones

SpaceX has demonstrated the ability to connect regular smartphones directly to its Starlink satellite network, surpassing the quality of ground-based operators.
This post was sent through a SpaceX Direct to Cell satellite in space 🛰️
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) February 26, 2024
A recent tweet posted by SpaceX showcased a message sent from a standard phone, directly linked to the Starlink satellite system. Despite being a conventional device not tailored for satellite communication, the network reception from space proved to be superior to that of traditional mobile networks.
"This post was sent through a SpaceX Direct to Cell satellite in space," SpaceX announced, highlighting the seamless integration of standard phones with the Starlink low-orbit satellite network.
Ben Longmier, SpaceX's Senior Director of Satellite Engineering, further emphasized this achievement by revealing successful messaging and internet access from a phone located in Santa Cruz, California, noting the surprising strength of the satellite signal even amidst dense foliage.
The SpaceX team just completed the first post on X from a phone to one of our Direct to Cell satellites!
— Ben Longmier (@longmier) February 26, 2024
This was the tree cover in a small valley in the Santa Cruz Mountains earlier in the day when we were exchanging some DMs on X. https://t.co/KFl1fZ9pvH pic.twitter.com/pzveDbSn8P
SpaceX's technological breakthrough enables cell phones to access the internet, receive text messages, and make voice calls in remote areas where conventional landline services are unavailable.
With the launch of Starlink Direct to Cell satellites earlier this year, SpaceX demonstrated the feasibility of direct connections to mobile phones, paving the way for expanded connectivity options.