If your cell phone doesn't have a connection, a direct satellite connection comes to the rescue. For now, it's a test, but the agreement between Fastweb + Vodafone and Starlink di Elon Musk has the very aim of bringing mobile connection also where today the signal is absent or very weak. The new technology “Direct to Cell” will be tested for now onApennines of the Center of Italy thanks to the integration between the mobile network by Fastweb+Vodafone with the connectivity service satellite in low orbit of the Starlink satellites, developed by the group SpaceX, says a note from the company.
The connection will be available directly on 4G smartphones, without the need for dedicated satellite phones or additional accessories, as if it were a normal mobile network. In the absence of a terrestrial signal, the smartphone's connectivity will be lost. automatically to satellite technology. The network switch will be seamless for the user, the statement explains, with no interruptions to data or text message access and no manual action required on the device. The new service is useful in the most remote or inaccessible areas where installing new antennas is difficult and expensive.
What will users be able to do with satellite connection?
During the test, customers will be able to use uses already present on their smartphones, enabled for this new technology. Among the examples given are Whatsapp, for exchanging messages, and Google Maps, for navigation and map viewing even in areas where mobile coverage is currently poor. In addition to data usage, you will also be able to send and receive text messages.
Combining terrestrial mobile infrastructure with satellite networks can expand and improve connectivity options, providing access where terrestrial coverage is lacking, such as in remote areas, mountainous regions, or coastal regions, thus ensuring better and more efficient connectivity, a statement says. In the event of a terrestrial signal loss, smartphone connectivity automatically switches to satellite technology, without interrupting data access or texting and without requiring users to take any further action.
"Starlink Mobile is transforming the way customers connect with reliable coverage in remote areas where terrestrial cellular signals don't reach," said Stephanie Bednarek, vice president of commercial sales at SpaceX. "Our goal is to contribute to the country's digitalization," said Marco Raimondi, head of B2C Products at Fastweb + Vodafone.
