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SpaceX achieved an impressive top download speed of 17Mbit/s with their Starlink satellites connected to a regular Android smartphone. CEO Elon Musk stated that this peak speed is the maximum that can currently be attained per satellite beam.
Musk recently tweeted about the Direct-to-Cell technology, emphasizing its effectiveness in areas where traditional telephone networks are not available. He mentioned that this technology would complement existing telecom networks. Musk also mentioned a partnership with American provider T-Mobile, with whom Starlink has been collaborating to test the Direct-to-Cell telephone service. Earlier this year, Starlink launched its first satellites with support for Direct-to-Cell, offering a reported maximum download speed of 7Mbit/s per beam at the time.
Starlink's Direct-to-Cell service is expected to be officially launched later this year. SpaceX is currently working with T-Mobile in the United States, as well as providers in Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Switzerland, and Canada. Initially, the service will focus on sending text messages, with plans to expand to support telephone calls and internet connections by 2025. As of now, there is no information available regarding support for the service in the Netherlands and Belgium.
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