The reality in which our mobile phones will have connectivity anywhere in the world, even in the most remote places you can think of, is getting closer every day. This is due to SpaceX’s activation of its Starlink Direct-to-Cell service on July 15. This service offered by Starlink satellites launched into orbit by Elon Musk’s company allows for cell coverage anywhere in the world. Currently, its operation is only available in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, while waiting for agreements to be formalized with local operating companies in other locations, as was done with T-Mobile in the United States. This service is compatible with devices such as iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and Motorola.
To synchronize our mobile device with the satellite without the need for additional hardware, through Starlink Direct-to-Cell, you just need: the mobile to be compatible with T-Mobile, to be outdoors and have no obstacles, no hardware is needed, and it connects directly as if it were a space cell tower. So far, it only offers text messaging (SMS) and geolocation, you cannot make calls or access the internet. The most critical highlight its high consumption of matter, the delay experienced in sending and receiving messages, and that it does not work if you are indoors or there is any type of obstacle.
StarLink, Direct-To-Cell
Do you know the Starlink satellites from SpaceX? They are the satellites that Elon Musk’s company placed in orbit on May 24, 2019. A Falcon 9 rocket was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, with the first 60 satellites. Since July 15, 2025, SpaceX activated the Starlink Direct-to-Cell service, through which certain mobile phones can connect directly, without the need for external hardware. For now, it only works in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan. In addition to connecting directly to a mobile, it can also be paired with a vehicle later.
What does it consist of?
It is still in its initial phase, but once connected, users can send text messages (SMS), and it also supports geolocation. At the moment, it does not have internet access. Its use is particularly useful when dealing with an emergency in remote areas where there is no land coverage. Another of its attractions is that it does not require infrastructure or an application, but connects directly. Currently, the list of compatible devices is limited, but it is expected to expand. It works with:
- Apple: iPhone 14, 15, and 16.
- Google Pixel 9 and later.
- Samsung Galaxy A14+, S21‑S25, Z Flip 3‑6, and Fold 3+.
- Motorola Razr (2024) and Moto Edge or Moto G Power 5G (2024).
How do I sync my car?
As already explained, if you want to connect the mobile phone, absolutely nothing is needed, as it connects automatically upon detecting the signal. However, when it is the car that you want to connect, the steps change, especially if you already have the Starlink Mini or standard kit. The steps are as follows:The mobile device must be compatible and have a plan with T-Mobile, which operates the service.The car must be outdoors without obstacles, so that the phone can detect the satellite.The phone acts as an intermediary with the signal, so no extra hardware is needed in the car.
What do consumers think?
Experts have detected some downsides to using the Starlink connection:
- The satellite connection consumes more battery than terrestrial signals.
- Messages are not in real time, but rather experience delays due to the movement of satellites and automatic reorientation.
- In case of being indoors, the service would not work or would do so with great difficulty.
The arrival of Starlink service in other regions depends on agreements between local operators and the company. It is expected that by the end of 2025 and early 2026, the agreements will be finalized and it can operate in more places around the world.
Do you know the mission that NASA and SpaceX are carrying out together?