SpaceX has achieved a significant milestone in its quest to eliminate cellular dead zones.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has approved SpaceX’s use of its Starlink broadband satellites to provide direct-to-phone service for T-Mobile customers.
This marks the first FCC-approved collaboration between a satellite operator and a wireless carrier, laying the groundwork for seamless cellular coverage across remote and underserved areas, the Verge reported.
The FCC highlighted the service’s potential to benefit the public by enabling connectivity in remote regions, providing access to emergency 911 services, and advancing satellite-to-device technology.
The announcement follows SpaceX and T-Mobile’s temporary clearance in October, which allowed Starlink satellite service to be deployed in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. Initially revealed in 2022, the partnership aims to address the persistent issue of cellular dead zones in the U.S. Verizon and AT&T have since entered similar agreements with AST SpaceMobile.
Despite this progress, regulatory conditions remain tied to the FCC’s approval. SpaceX’s request to increase the radio emission power of its satellites, which is necessary for real-time voice and video calls, remains under review.
Competing carriers AT&T and Verizon have raised concerns, arguing that such changes could interfere with their networks. The FCC is also deliberating SpaceX’s proposal to launch an additional 22,488 satellites, though it has already approved a constellation of 7,518 in 2018.
The first Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell support were launched in January 2024, but the full constellation required for complete functionality is still in development. SpaceX plans to test basic SMS capabilities under its temporary clearance, with voice and data support projected to become available by 2025.
FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the agency’s commitment to fostering competition in the space economy, encouraging collaborations between mobile carriers and satellite operators to create a unified network. This initiative aims to eliminate mobile dead zones, marking a significant step toward ubiquitous connectivity.
The approval signifies a critical advancement in satellite and telecommunications technology, bringing the vision of global cellular coverage closer to reality. For SpaceX and T-Mobile, it’s a leap forward in transforming how connectivity is delivered, even to the country’s most remote corners.
