SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell Starlink service has achieved a significant milestone by reaching nationwide coverage in New Zealand. However, this accomplishment comes with some limitations. One NZ, a telecommunications company, is proud to be the first globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service using Starlink.
Partnerships and Global Expansion
Starlink has partnered with several companies across the globe, including T-Mobile in the US, Canada’s Telefilm, Australia’s Optus, Japan’s KDDI Corporation, Peru’s Telefonica Movistar, Switzerland’s Sunrise Communications, and Chile’s Entel. These partnerships demonstrate the growing interest in satellite-based telecommunications services.
Supported Devices and Eligibility
At present, only four phone models are compatible with One NZ’s Satellite TXT service: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. However, eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year as part of a phased rollout.
Service Performance and Limitations
During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes, according to One NZ. However, this may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months. In an interview, Joe Goddard, Experience and Commercial Director at One NZ, explained that the service is still being tested and will improve over time.
"We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better," said Goddard. "For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
Rollout and Future Developments
One NZ has begun a staggered rollout of the technology, starting with a small number of phones. The company is focused on refining its service before expanding it to more devices and features.
"We’re beginning with a small number of phones as part of the staggered rollout of the technology," said Goddard. "And critically, from today customers can send and receive text messages only, but in the future, we expect voice calling and data to also be available."
Free Service for Existing Customers
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it is unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will need to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
Starlink’s Text-by-Satellite Service
In October, Starlink piloted its text-by-satellite service with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted T-Mobile approval for the service in November. Now, T-Mobile is signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program "early next year."
Conclusion
The achievement of nationwide coverage in New Zealand marks a significant milestone for SpaceX’s Starlink service. As One NZ continues to refine its technology and expand its services, it will be exciting to see how satellite-based telecommunications evolve in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What devices are currently supported by the One NZ Satellite TXT service?
A: Currently, only four phone models are compatible with the service: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. - Q: How long does it take to send text messages using the One NZ Satellite TXT service?
A: During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes. However, this may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months. - Q: Is the One NZ Satellite TXT service free for all customers?
A: The service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it is unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will need to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
References
- "One NZ Announces Nationwide Satellite Text Messaging Service via Starlink" One NZ Press Release
- "T-Mobile and SpaceX Launch Beta Program for Satellite-Based Voice Calling and Data Services in the US" T-Mobile Press Release
- "SpaceX’s Starlink Satellite Constellation: A New Era for Global Connectivity?" SatNews Publications
