Cell Towers in the Sky?
T-Mobile + SpaceX seems kinda lit
Well, it has been a long time coming. We are about to have cellular over satellite. More than likely, this cellular connection will not be 5G, but still, why did it take so long? Seems like a no brainer, right?
The goal of the partnership is to provide voice and data services anywhere, regardless of cell towers, allowing areas not yet reached by wireless networks to get service. That would include places where cellular signals can’t reach, such as the middle of a national park or a large body of water.
~ wsj.com
Let’s dive a little deeper.
Starlink is a satellite internet service developed by Elon Musk’s SpaceX that aims to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband to users all over the world. Starlink uses a constellation of thousands of low-Earth orbit satellites that communicate with ground stations and user terminals.
The new “cellular over satellite” service, called Coverage Above and Beyond, will leverage Starlink's satellites and T-Mobile's wireless network to provide near complete coverage in most places in the U.S., especially where there is no cell coverage or during emergencies. Users will be able to switch between T-Mobile's network and Starlink's satellites seamlessly using their existing phones.
According to Musk, this service will be particularly useful for first responders, rural communities, disaster relief efforts, and anyone who wants reliable connectivity anywhere. He also said that Starlink will eventually expand its coverage globally and offer voice calls as well as data.
The service is expected to launch sometime in 2024, but no pricing details have been announced yet. Users will need a Starlink user terminal (a small dish antenna) and a compatible phone to access the service. T-Mobile said it will offer incentives for customers who sign up for both Starlink internet and Coverage Above and Beyond.
As I mentioned before, Cellular over satellite has some advantages over traditional cellular networks, such as:
Coverage: Satellite networks can reach remote areas where cell towers are not available or feasible, such as rural regions, mountains, oceans, deserts, etc. This means you can stay connected even when you are off the grid or traveling to exotic locations.
Business continuity: Satellite connectivity can also serve as a backup option in case of emergencies or disasters that disrupt terrestrial networks. For example, if a storm knocks out power lines or cell towers, you can still use your satellite phone to make calls or send messages.
Security: Satellite communications are encrypted and protected from interference or eavesdropping. You can enjoy more privacy and confidentiality when using satellite phones.
What are the challenges of cellular over satellite?
Cellular over satellite also has some limitations and drawbacks that you should be aware of, such as:
Cost: Satellite phones and plans (currently) are more expensive than regular cell phones and plans. You might have to pay higher fees for activation, equipment, airtime, roaming, etc. Depending on your usage and needs, this might not be worth it for you.
Functionality: Current satellite phones are designed mainly for voice and text communication. They do not have many features that modern smartphones have, such as cameras, apps, internet browsing, etc. Some satellite phones can connect to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth devices, but this might affect their performance or battery life. We have yet to see a true “satellite smartphone.”
Availability: Satellite communication depends on the position and orbit of the satellites. This means that there might be times when you cannot get a signal or when your call quality is poor. You also need a clear line of sight between your phone and the sky to make a connection.
It doesn’t seem like cellular over satellite will be replacing 5G anytime soon. It is cool to think about a world without cell towers though!
Cheers,
Joe