Starlink enables stable Internet even in remote locations. At least for your computer. Soon, satellite internet will also be available for smartphones. But there are still a few hurdles to overcome before then.
New satellites from Starlink make it possible
With Starlink, SpaceX has created what is probably the best-known satellite internet in the world. Its use in crisis regions, such as the areas affected by the flood in the Ahr valley, was the main reason for its global fame. However, Starlink apparently wants to penetrate further into the masses and also enable access via a standard smartphone.
The company, headed by Elon Musk, already created the technical prerequisites last year. The latest satellite technology was launched into orbit. SpaceX is cooperating with T-Mobile to be able to market the whole thing accordingly. However, as good as the whole thing may sound, the legal hurdles still appear to be complex.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is probably the linchpin here. It must first approve the application submitted by SpaceX before the project can even be considered for launch. A launch of Starlink for smartphones is probably still planned for 2024.
The future of mobile internet?
With the help of Starlink, smartphones should then be able to use a stable and reliable internet even in remote regions. However, the possibilities are still somewhat limited at the beginning. According to a report by PC Mag, voice calls, Internet surfing and text messages should not be a problem at the beginning. However, this catalog of features will be expanded over time.
In practice, Starlink will not be used as the sole Internet connection. Rather, its use can be described as a kind of backup. As soon as the provider’s conventional mobile network is no longer strong enough, Starlink’s satellites will quickly step in to provide Internet coverage. This should ensure reliable network coverage even in remote regions.
In theory, of course, this all sounds great. But before things can get started, the FCC not only has to approve the plan itself, but also the expansion of available radio frequencies. The authority could be strict here, as the frequencies are actually intended to be kept free for use in emergencies. Accordingly, we will have to wait and see whether the project will actually be launched this year.
