FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has warned EU nations about growing reliance on Starlink, highlighting risks of over-dependence on a single satellite provider. European officials share concerns, especially as geopolitical tensions rise. While local alternatives like OneWeb emerge, the EU faces tough challenges in securing technological autonomy.
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.
Orange has partnered with Telesat to provide satellite-based connectivity via the Lightspeed LEO network. As part of the deal, Orange will host a Telesat landing station in France, enhancing global connectivity. With 14 planned SpaceX launches, the network will deliver high-speed services, expanding Orange’s satellite capabilities across Europe, Africa, and beyond.
Apple is reportedly testing direct satellite connectivity for iPhones in partnership with Starlink and T-Mobile. This initiative, enabled by iOS 18.3, allows select T-Mobile users to text via satellite in areas without cellular coverage.
Oracle and Starlink have partnered to enhance Oracle’s Enterprise Communications Platform with high-speed satellite connectivity. This integration enables secure, real-time data flow for industries like healthcare and construction, even in remote areas.
T-Mobile has launched Starlink satellite messaging for Samsung Galaxy devices, enhancing off-grid connectivity for Galaxy S24 users in the U.S. This beta service utilizes a low-earth orbit constellation, enabling text communication in areas without cellular coverage.
Telstra and Starlink are pioneering Satellite-to-Mobile text messaging in Australia. Through leveraging satellite technology, this partnership aims to address mobile coverage limitations in remote areas.
Explore the latest collaboration between UK-based cellular IoT MVNO, Eseye, and satellite provider, Sateliot. Together, they are transforming the IoT landscape by extending network coverage with a cutting-edge satellite solution, promising seamless global connectivity.
Reliance Jio is intensifying its push to mandate satellite spectrum auctions, arguing that direct allocation allows firms like SpaceX’s Starlink to unfairly undercut traditional wireless operators on pricing. As India’s telecom regulator evaluates implications from satellite competitors like Amazon’s Kuiper, the urgency grows to level the regulatory playing field.
