One NZ has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via SpaceX’s Starlink. This achievement marks a major breakthrough in the deployment of satellite-based communication technology.
Expansion of Satellite-to-Cell Services Globally
Starlink has partnered with several companies across different countries, including Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile. These partnerships signify a growing interest in satellite-based communication services globally. Furthermore, Starlink has collaborated with T-Mobile in the US, indicating a significant step towards widespread adoption of this technology.
Current Limitations and Future Plans
At present, only four phone models are supported for the One NZ Satellite TXT service: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. However, it is expected that eligibility will expand to more devices in the coming year.
During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes, as reported by One NZ. Nevertheless, this time may increase to ’10 minutes or longer’ during the first few months. According to Joe Goddard, Experience and Commercial Director at One NZ, "We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better. For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
Phased Rollout and Future Plans
The phased rollout of the technology involves starting with a small number of phones. The service will initially provide text messaging capabilities only, although voice calling and data services are expected to be available in the future.
Benefits for Existing Customers
Existing customers on paid-monthly plans will not have to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage. However, One NZ has not disclosed whether new customers or those on other contracts will be required to pay a separate charge for this service.
Previous Piloting and Beta Program
Starlink’s text-by-satellite service was previously piloted with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in October. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted approval for the service in November, paving the way for the US Starlink beta program.
T-Mobile’s Starlink Beta Program
T-Mobile is set to begin signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program early next year. This move signifies a significant step towards making satellite-based communication services more accessible to a broader audience.
Conclusion
The nationwide coverage milestone achieved by One NZ with SpaceX’s Starlink service marks an important achievement in the deployment of satellite-based communication technology. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see expanded capabilities and increased accessibility for users globally.
FAQs
- What is One NZ Satellite TXT?
- One NZ Satellite TXT is a nationwide satellite text messaging service powered by SpaceX’s Starlink.
- Which phone models are currently supported?
- Only four phone models are currently supported: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro.
- Will the eligibility for this service expand to more devices in the future?
- Yes, it is expected that eligibility will expand to more devices next year.
Future Developments
The deployment of satellite-based communication technology is an ongoing process. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see expanded capabilities and increased accessibility for users globally. The phased rollout of the technology involves starting with a small number of phones and providing text messaging capabilities only initially, although voice calling and data services are expected to be available in the future.
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