SpaceX founder Elon Musk announced the company plans to release a portable version of its Starlink satellite internet service later this year. Musk shared this exciting update during a recent speech to employees. On January 12, SpaceX released the video of the “all hands” company presentation which revealed plans for the new “Starlink Mini” antenna that can conveniently fit into a backpack (video is linked below).
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The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted approval to SpaceX’s application for the Starlink Mini antenna hardware back in September 2023. Although details such as pricing, specifications, and images remain undisclosed, Musk assured that the upcoming model would be “pretty cool for anyone who wants a very portable Starlink.”
Beyond hardware updates, SpaceX showcased its ambitions for a cellular version of Starlink satellites capable of beaming data directly to unmodified smartphones phones on Earth. In a recent demonstration, the “Direct-to-Cell” Starlink satellites successfully relayed text messages to smartphones on the ground, as previously reported by Cosmic Chronicles. Musk shared SpaceX plans to launch this Direct-to-Cell Starlink in partnership with T-Mobile later this year for text messages, followed by voice and data support in 2025.
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Musk also mentioned the potential of the cellular Starlink satellite system, providing around 7Mbps (megabits per second) per cell with extensive coverage, “[…] And the cells are hundreds of square miles, kilometers in size. So it’s good for text messages,” Musk said. “You could technically do video if you’re the only one, or if there’s only a few people in that cell, like if you’re in the middle of the Pacific.”
SpaceX still awaits FCC approval to operate the service commercially in the United States, it is currently only testing the Direct-to-Cell service. The company’s groundbreaking developments continue to redefine the possibilities of satellite internet and connectivity, promising innovative solutions for millions of users worldwide.
VIDEO: SpaceX Company Presentation
In 2023, SpaceX completed 96 successful missions, safely flew 12 more astronauts to orbit, launched two flight tests of Starship, and more than doubled the number of people around the world connected by @Starlink.
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) January 12, 2024
Watch @elonmusk deliver a company update: pic.twitter.com/7zeTlQLgp9
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