In a significant achievement, SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell Starlink service has reached a nationwide coverage milestone in New Zealand. One NZ, the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink, has announced this major development.
Global Partnerships and Expansion
Starlink has also secured partnerships with various countries, including Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile. In the United States, Starlink has partnered with T-Mobile, marking a significant step towards expanding its global reach.
Limited Device Support and Elongated Transmission Times
Currently, only four phone models are supported by the One NZ Satellite TXT service: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. However, eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year.
During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes. However, this may increase to ’10 minutes or longer’ during the first few months. According to One NZ, this is due to the fact that they are continuously testing the capabilities of their satellite TXT service.
Future Improvements and Expansion
One NZ’s Experience and Commercial Director, Joe Goddard, has stated that the service will improve over time. "We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better. For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
Goddard also emphasized that the company is taking a staggered approach to rolling out the technology, starting with a small number of phones. This approach will enable them to refine their services and ensure that they meet the high standards expected by customers.
Availability and Pricing
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be available for free to existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will need to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
Previous Pilots and US Expansion
In October, Starlink successfully piloted its text-by-satellite service with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) subsequently granted T-Mobile approval for the service in November.
T-Mobile is now signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program ‘early next year’. This marks a significant step towards expanding the reach of Starlink’s satellite-to-cell services in the United States.
Conclusion
SpaceX’s Starlink service has made significant strides in achieving nationwide coverage milestones in New Zealand. With partnerships established globally and expansion plans underway, it is clear that this technology has the potential to revolutionize telecommunications worldwide.
As One NZ continues to refine its services and expand device support, customers can expect improved transmission times and increased functionality. The future of satellite-to-cell communication looks bright, and Starlink is at the forefront of this innovation.
List of Supported Devices
The following devices are currently supported by the One NZ Satellite TXT service:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- OPPO Find X8 Pro
Timeline for Expansion
Eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year, with improved transmission times and increased functionality.
