Elon Musk announced the completion of the first Starlink satellite constellation capable of providing direct internet connectivity to unmodified cell phones.
This groundbreaking development will enable users in remote areas to access the internet without needing specialised equipment, significantly enhancing connectivity for underserved populations.
The announcement follows the successful launch of 20 Starlink satellites, including 13 equipped with direct-to-cell capabilities, from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base on December 4, 2024.
While the current bandwidth per beam is approximately 10 Mbps, Musk indicated that future constellations would offer much greater capabilities. This enhancement is expected to improve the user experience significantly, especially in areas where traditional internet infrastructure is lacking or non-existent.
The Starlink project aims to deploy thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit to provide global broadband coverage. As of now, SpaceX has launched over 7,000 satellites and continues to expand its network.
The initiative has already garnered significant interest, with millions of subscribers benefiting from high-speed internet access across various regions.
This latest advancement is part of Musk's broader vision to revolutionize global internet connectivity and support future endeavours such as Mars colonisation.
By enabling direct cell phone connectivity through its satellite network, SpaceX is looking to transform how people access information and communicate in even the most remote locations around the world.
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