"SpaceX's 2024 Milestone: Launching Starlink's Initial Direct-to-Cell Satellites with T-Mobile"
SpaceX has launched the first set of Starlink satellites capable of providing direct cell phone service, aiming to fill in coverage gaps in remote areas and signal dead zones. The service, which will initially partner with T-Mobile in the U.S., will allow ordinary 4G LTE-compatible phones to connect without additional equipment. Text messaging services are expected later this year, with expanded voice, data, and IoT services planned for 2025. Elon Musk has acknowledged the limitations of the satellite service compared to terrestrial networks but sees it as a solution for areas without cellular connectivity. Starlink has also announced partnerships with carriers worldwide, with plans to offer global service.