Wireless News in the US, this week (Special Direct-To-Satellite Edition)

Briefing Doc: SpaceX and T-Mobile's Direct-to-Cell Satellite Service

Date: December 7, 2024

Subject: FCC Approval and Launch of SpaceX and T-Mobile's Direct-to-Cell Service

Summary: The FCC has approved SpaceX's application to provide direct-to-cell satellite service in partnership with T-Mobile, marking a significant milestone in the satellite and telecommunications industries. This partnership aims to eliminate cellular dead zones across the U.S. by leveraging SpaceX's Starlink satellite constellation. While the initial service will focus on basic texting (SMS), plans for voice and data capabilities are expected by 2025.

Main Themes:

• Eliminating Cellular Dead Zones: The core objective of the partnership is to provide cellular connectivity in areas where traditional terrestrial networks are unavailable. This is achieved by using modified Starlink satellites that can communicate directly with unmodified cell phones using T-Mobile's spectrum.
• Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS): This new service falls under the FCC's new regulatory framework for SCS, enabling satellite operators to partner with mobile network operators (MNOs) to expand coverage using satellite technology.
• Initial Texting Service: The service will launch with basic texting capabilities, allowing T-Mobile customers in remote areas to send and receive SMS messages via Starlink satellites.
• Future Expansion: SpaceX and T-Mobile plan to expand the service to include voice and data capabilities by 2025, pending further FCC approval and technological advancements.
• Competition and Regulation: The FCC's approval highlights a growing trend of satellite-to-device connectivity and raises questions about fostering competition while preventing market dominance and potential interference with existing terrestrial networks.

Important Ideas/Facts:

• FCC Approval: The FCC granted SpaceX approval to operate the direct-to-cell service on November 26, 2024.
• Satellite Constellation: The first orbital shell of Starlink satellites equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities is complete, according to Ben Longmier, SpaceX Senior Director of Satellite Engineering.
• Beta Testing: SpaceX plans to initiate employee beta testing of the service in the U.S. soon.
• Power Boost Concerns: The FCC is yet to decide on SpaceX's request to increase satellite power, which would enable real-time voice and video calls. Competitors, such as AT&T and Verizon, have expressed concerns about potential interference with their networks.
• T-Mobile Integration: T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert confirmed the company's readiness to launch beta testing, though the exact rollout plan and pricing details are still under wraps.

Quotes:

• Elon Musk, SpaceX CEO: “The first Starlink satellite direct to cell phone constellation is now complete...This will enable unmodified cellphones to have internet connectivity in remote areas.”
• Ulf Ewaldsson, T-Mobile President of Technology: "Our partnership on T-Mobile/Starlink is an effort to eliminate dead zones with direct-to-cell satellite coverage. We’re excited to help provide connectivity for our customers no matter where they are in the U.S."
• Jessica Rosenworcel, FCC Chair: “The FCC is actively promoting competition in the space economy by supporting more partnerships between terrestrial mobile carriers and satellite operators to deliver on a single network future that will put an end to mobile dead zones."

Thank you for listening!
-Mario Mejia