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.
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.
T-Mobile US introduces its Starlink public beta, addressing network gaps by covering over 500,000 miles where traditional networks struggle. The Starlink service ensures seamless connectivity, automatically switching networks when out of coverage.
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.
T-Mobile US is redefining telecommunications by launching its innovative beta direct-to-cellular service with Starlink in 2025, aiming to eliminate cellular dead zones. Starting with text messaging, with future voice and data expansion, this service promises to enhance connectivity seamlessly.
