The Starlink satellites will be able to connect to the carrier's phones over existing cellular bands. Global roaming may be added for free to existing T-Mobile plans if the companies are able to enable it.
The technology alliance was announced at the space company's Star base in Texas.
Sievert likened it to putting a cellular tower in the sky. Your phone doesn't know it's connecting to space It will think it is connected to a cell tower because that phone is using industry standard technology communication protocols and it has the spectrum already built in.
Both executives emphasized the importance of the announcement. The startup plans to provide emergency messaging and alert across the globe from a small constellation of satellites. The validation of this as a service is wonderful. After the announcement, Charles Miller said it was a huge need and a huge market. They have a patent and an FCC license, so we will see how that goes.
Lynk demos global satellite connection for ordinary phones and prepares for commercial launch
It's possible that Starlink can provide more frequent and high bandwidth connection due to its larger presence in space.
It appears that this connection has not yet been demonstrated in space. They didn't say that it had been, but I will update if I hear back.
A special antenna, the most advanced phased array antenna in the world, is being made. They need to pick up a very quiet signal from your cell phone. The hardware and software is complex because it is moving so quickly. A cell phone tower doesn't travel at 17,000 mph.
At first the service will only enable text messages, and possibly messaging apps, though Sievert warned that "we haven't actually begun working with other companies... it's a bit of a technical problem that we need assistance from the partner with." There would be a significant delay until the message is sent or received.
Multiple voice calls and real-time messaging could be enabled by the spec of the antenna and service, according to Musk.
This is something of an exclusive since the service only works with T-Mobile's own licensed spectrum. Both Sievert and Musk want to find arrangements with providers in other countries that use compatible spectrum. It will be determined as well.
The product and service itself is still being hammered out, Sievert noted repeatedly, but you can expect to hear more in the coming months as the details occur to the companies in question.
Starlink on your yacht, so hot
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