Telstra has partnered with SpaceX’s Starlink to bring Satellite-to-Mobile (direct-to-handset) text messaging to Australia. This technology aims to improve coverage, particularly in remote and regional areas where traditional mobile networks don't reach. The partnership builds on Telstra's existing collaboration with Starlink on Low-Earth-Orbit (LEO) satellite home and small business fixed internet products.
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Satellite-to-Mobile Technology
Telstra on Thursday said that users will not need specialised phones to use this technology, as modern smartphones are already compatible. The technology works by leveraging satellites to send SMS messages, similar to how emergency SOS via satellite works on some devices. While Satellite-to-Mobile will initially support text messaging, future upgrades are expected to expand to voice and low-speed data services.
Focusing on Remote and Regional Areas
Currently, Telstra's network covers 99.7 percent of the Australian population. However, due to Australia's vast landmass, significant areas remain underserved. Telstra indicated that this collaboration with Starlink will initially focus on testing and refining Satellite-to-Mobile technology, which will eventually allow Australians in remote areas to send SMS messages via satellite, even when outside mobile network coverage.
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Future Plans
"As satellite technology continues to evolve to support voice, data and IoT we will explore opportunities for the commercial launch of those new services," said Telstra's Group Executive for Global Networks and Technology.
This initiative targets Australians in remote locations and will serve as a "just-in-case" layer of connectivity for emergencies or simple communication when mobile networks aren't available, according to the executive.
Complementing Telstra’s Land-Based Network
"Satellite-to-Mobile will complement our existing land-based mobile network offering basic connectivity where people have never had it before," Telstra said. The service is expected to cover most outdoor areas on mainland Australia and Tasmania where customers have a clear line of sight to the sky, excluding the Australian Radio Quiet Zone in Western Australia and remote offshore territories and islands.
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5G and Infrastructure Investments
With ongoing investments in mobile network infrastructure, Telstra reiterated its commitment to expanding and improving coverage. Over the past seven years, it has invested AUD 11.8 billion in mobile networks and aims to roll out 5G to 95 percent of Australians by FY25.
