Starlink Secure Direct to Cell Commercial License from FCC

SpaceX has received Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval for a commercial license for the Starlink Direct-to-Cell program in the United States.

According to Ben Longmire, SpaceX’s senior director of satellite engineering, the company preparation for launch Beta testing for US employees soon. The program, developed in collaboration with early US partners such as T-Mobile, allows mobile devices to connect directly to Starlink satellites, bypassing the need for traditional cell towers.

The FCC’s decision includes certain conditions to address interference and environmental concerns while clearing SpaceX’s ability to offer service in remote and underserved areas.

Longmire thanked agencies such as NASA and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) for their coordination in establishing the program.

Starlink Direct-to-Cell aims to expand T-Mobile’s network coverage to previously unreachable areas, demonstrating the program’s potential to revolutionize mobile communications. With the commercial license now in place, SpaceX is poised to begin offering expanded services beyond the initial consumer license phase, further cementing its role in shaping the future of global communications.

SpaceX completed its initial Starlink Direct to Cell network this week, and services should launch online for T-Mobile customers by the end of this year.