iPhones and Android phones can now use satellites to make calls

According to the latest news released by SpaceX, iPhone and Android users will soon be able to use Elon Musk’s satellites to make calls from anywhere – thanks to the Starlink technology. Soon after revolutionizing global internet access, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite technology is poised to take smartphone connectivity to the next level by enabling people to communicate even in the most remote areas of the world. This ambitious satellite technology will enable all users to make calls from virtually anywhere on the planet, all without the need for specialized hardware or software in their smartphones.

Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX Satellite company, has made an announcement regarding its plans to introduce Direct-to-Cell, a groundbreaking feature that uses its vast constellation of satellite network to allow voice calls on regular smartphones. What sets this apart is its simplicity—there’s no need for modifications to your device! As long as your phone is LTE-compatible, you’re ready to connect and get started. In essence, this innovation could fundamentally change our perception about mobile communication. Just imagine being able to make calls from the remotest corners of planet Earth—whether you’re deep in a rain-forest, sailing in the middle of the ocean, or trekking across deserts—with no cell towers in sight!  Isn’t it amazing? Starlink’s satellite system makes this scenario entirely possible. However, what we’re yet to get acquainted with is the cost implications.

Whilst satellite phones have been around for decades, they are very expensive to acquire. In contrast, those using the Starlink technology will not have to buy any expensive new hardware. Instead, they’ll simply be able to use their ordinary cell phones, making this a huge leap forward in transnational communications. The breakthrough comes days after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted SpaceX approval for Starlink to keep US residents with T-Mobile phones connected in the ‘cellular dead zones’ in November 2024.

According to The Mirror, further communication between Starlink and the FCC revealed that the service has also been successful with mobile phone brands such as Apple, Samsung and Google in testing. This was confirmed both in expansive outdoor areas and in cities, where those with the phones were using them in indoor locations. Starlink also says they expect the technology to work on older phones, not just those that have been bought in the last year or so. Starlink may not only provide a lifeline for those in areas without any internet or cell phone signal, but also for those who are in emergency situations or involved in search and rescue missions in hazardous or hard-to-reach areas.

As opposed to other traditional satellite services which tend to operate from a single geostationary module traveling around the planet at a distance of 35,786 km, Starlink consists of thousands of small satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO), which work together to create a large satellite network, or “constellation.” These satellites can cover the entire globe. They orbit at altitudes ranging from 340 km to 1,200 km above the earth’s surface, much lower than traditional geostationary satellites. This low orbit reduces internet latency thus supports streaming of data.

The Mirror also alludes to Starlink already being widely used in remote places where traditional mobile phone connectivity is impossible. For instance, the soldiers in Ukraine have made use of the technology to fly and operate their remotely piloted drones as they bid to counter Russian forces attacking them on the front-lines. According to SpaceX website, it also aims to expand its Starlink to support the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, improved voice communication, and even web browsing through their satellite network across the world.

Smartphone compatibility

The service has already proven successful with devices from major brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google. Tests confirmed smooth communication using the PCS G Block spectrum, across urban and rural areas, indoors and outdoors, and even under tree cover or clear skies. SpaceX affirms that any LTE-enabled smartphone will work with this technology—no hardware upgrade is required whatsoever. In fact, even slightly older models such as the iPhone 13 or iPhone 14 can benefit from this satellite connectivity. Therefore this innovation promises flexible, seamless, reliable communication where it was previously impossible.

iPhone Satellite Connectivity: Starting with the iPhone 14 series, Apple introduced the satellite-based features primarily for emergency situations. They include:

• Emergency SOS via Satellite: Allows users to send emergency messages when outside cellular and Wi-Fi coverage. This feature guides users to point their iPhone toward a satellite to establish a connection.
• Roadside Assistance via Satellite: Enables users to request help for vehicle issues in remote areas without cellular service. This service is available in select regions and requires iOS 18 or later.

Android Satellite Connectivity: Most Android smartphones are also incorporating satellite communication capabilities. Here are some examples of phone models:

• Google Pixel 9: Features satellite connectivity for emergency use, allowing users to contact emergency services when traditional networks are unavailable.

• Samsung Galaxy S24: Expected to include satellite communication features, enhancing connectivity in remote locations.

By making it possible to stay connected from virtually anywhere, Elon Musk’s Starlink continues to push the boundaries of modern communication. Whether for work, emergencies, or simply keeping in touch, this latest development could redefine what it means to be connected in an increasingly mobile world. These developments represent significant strides toward ubiquitous connectivity, ensuring that users can maintain communication even in the most remote locations on the globe.

Credits to: The Mirror and Jason Deegan

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