In a significant development, SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell Starlink service has achieved a nationwide coverage milestone in New Zealand. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink.
Partnerships and Expansion Plans
One NZ, a prominent telecommunications company in New Zealand, has partnered with SpaceX’s Starlink service to offer a cutting-edge solution for its customers. The partnership has enabled One NZ to become the first company worldwide to provide a comprehensive satellite text messaging service across the entire country.
In addition to New Zealand, Starlink has signed partnerships with several other companies globally, including:
- Canada: Partnering with various telecommunications providers in Canada, enabling them to leverage the power of Starlink for their customers.
- Australia: Collaborating with leading Australian telcos to provide satellite-based services to their users.
- Japan: Signing a partnership agreement with a prominent Japanese telecom company to integrate Starlink’s capabilities into its offerings.
- Peru: Partnering with a major Peruvian telecom provider to offer innovative satellite-based solutions to the region.
- Switzerland: Collaborating with a Swiss telco to provide advanced services leveraging the strengths of Starlink.
Current Device Support and Future Expansions
At present, only four phone models are supported by One NZ’s Satellite TXT service:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- OPPO Find X8 Pro
However, the company has announced plans to expand its device support to include more models next year, enabling a wider range of customers to take advantage of this innovative service.
Initial Performance and Expectations
According to One NZ, the initial rollout of the Satellite TXT service will allow most text messages to be sent and received within three minutes. However, this timeframe may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months as the company continues to test and refine its capabilities.
In an interview, Joe Goddard, Experience and Commercial Director at One NZ, highlighted that while the initial service will have limitations, it is expected to improve significantly over time: "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."
Availability and Pricing
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will be required to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
Future Plans and Developments
In the near future, One NZ expects voice calling and data services to become available via Starlink, further enhancing its offerings to customers. The company is committed to continually improving and expanding its capabilities, ensuring that customers can enjoy a seamless and high-quality experience.
Meanwhile, Starlink has been piloting its text-by-satellite service with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by hurricanes in the United States. Following this success, T-Mobile was granted FCC approval for the service in November and is now signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program early next year.
Conclusion
SpaceX’s Starlink service has achieved a significant milestone with its nationwide coverage in New Zealand, marking a new era in telecommunications. With partnerships globally and a commitment to ongoing innovation, the future of satellite-based services looks bright.