KDDI and Okinawa Cellular, in partnership with Starlink, have launched au Starlink Direct — Japan’s first direct-to-device satellite service. Starting April 10, 2025, au users can enjoy seamless connectivity even beyond network zones, enabling emergency alerts, location sharing, and AI-powered assistance, all at no extra cost.
Anatel has approved Starlink to launch 7,500 more satellites in Brazil, expanding its network. While boosting internet coverage, the decision raised regulatory concerns. Amid tensions with Brazilian authorities and global contract setbacks, Starlink also faces rising costs from U.S. import tariffs.
Wildanet is revolutionizing fibre broadband in Cornwall with its latest initiative, leveraging its partnership with Xantaro. With an investment of £77 million, this project under Project Gigabit aims to connect over 35,000 rural premises. Xantaro’s advanced technologies streamline deployment, reduce costs, and enhance connectivity.
AT&T’s collaboration with Karrier One marks a transformative shift in global Wi-Fi offload strategy, integrating vast Wi-Fi infrastructure with a decentralized wireless framework. As mobile users increasingly rely on Wi-Fi, this partnership ensures seamless transitions between cellular and Wi-Fi networks.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper is on the cusp of launching its first major batch of satellites, marking a significant step toward global satellite broadband. Scheduled for April 9th, the KA-01 mission will deploy 27 satellites, advancing Amazon’s venture into offering low-latency internet worldwide.
Project Kuiper by Amazon is poised to revolutionize the broadband landscape with its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite launch, directly challenging Starlink. With over 3,200 satellites and telecom partnerships, Kuiper promises high-speed, low-latency internet worldwide. This development is a significant contender in the growing LEO broadband market.
Quickline has secured £11 million in public funding to expand its Project Gigabit rollout, bringing full fibre broadband to 6,000 more homes and businesses in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. This investment supports the UK government’s goal of nationwide high-speed internet, ensuring even rural areas gain access.
Ofcom’s bold proposal positions the UK as Europe’s pioneer in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services, enhancing mobile connectivity by bypassing traditional equipment. Utilizing existing 4G and 5G spectrum, this approach promises to boost rural coverage and drive innovation.
Spain has invested €13.8M in Sateliot to enhance its LEO satellite constellation for defense, security, and logistics. With €58.8M raised in its Series B round, plus a €30M EIB loan, Sateliot aims to revolutionize global IoT connectivity via 5G satellites, targeting €1B revenue by 2030.
Verizon has expanded its satellite-based direct-to-cell texting service, enhancing connectivity for select Android users. This upgrade enables text messaging via satellite, benefiting those outside traditional networks.
