January 24, 2025
SpaceX's Starlink is set to beta test its Direct-to-Cell (DTC) satellites on January 27, 2025, aiming for global mobile connectivity without new hardware. The six-month test targets T-Mobile users in the U.S., focusing on enhancing communication in remote areas and during emergencies.
Granite Telecommunications partners with SpaceX to sell Starlink's satellite internet, targeting multi-location businesses and government agencies. This deal leverages Starlink's LEO satellite network for improved connectivity, particularly in underserved areas, and integrates Granite's edgebootPro solution for enhanced service resilience.
Starlink is launching a free emergency communication service to eliminate dead zones and enhance connectivity in remote areas. This initiative, focused on humanitarian safety, utilizes Direct-to-Cell technology to allow regular smartphones to connect to satellites, with text services in 2024 and voice calls in 2025.
Starlink is now Kenya's eighth-largest internet provider, overtaking Liquid Telecommunications with 16,746 subscribers and a 1.1% market share. Rapid growth stems from demand for high-speed internet in underserved areas, but proposed regulatory changes may pose challenges.
Veon Ltd is in talks with Starlink to offer satellite-powered cellular services in Bangladesh via its subsidiary, Banglalink. This move aims to enhance connectivity in underserved regions, addressing issues like network unreliability during adverse conditions.
Starlink has officially registered in Pakistan, pushing forward its plans to offer satellite internet pending governmental approval. Despite optimism from PTA for quick licensing, concerns over Elon Musk's previous comments may delay progress.
January 23, 2025
Italy is close to finalizing a €1.5 billion deal with SpaceX to use Starlink for secure communications, as IRIS2's delay prompts alternative solutions. Concerns arise over service duplication and data privacy.
Starlink plans to expand satellite internet services to 15 more African countries by 2025, addressing high demand and paused sales in urban areas. Pending applications and planned satellite launches aim to boost bandwidth and service reach, with profitability already achieved in five nations.
KDDI Corporation has introduced free Wi-Fi on the Hamayu ferry using Starlink's satellite broadband from January 22, 2025. This trial aims to expand satellite internet on ferries, offering speeds up to 220 Mbps, and addresses maritime connectivity challenges.
Granite Telecommunications, a major tech solutions provider, is now an authorized reseller of SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet, expanding its offerings to the U.S. and Canada. This partnership allows Granite to deliver Starlink's high-speed, low-latency internet to remote and underserved areas, enhanced by its edgebootPro solution for seamless connectivity.
Teodoro Valente of Italy's ASI confirms potential collaboration with Starlink won't jeopardize national security, aiming to secure communications for officials and defense. Despite opposition concerns, Valente assures that Italy's tech will ensure data security, and the move won't conflict with Europe's delayed IRIS2 project.
SpaceX will retire the portability add-on for Starlink subscribers, replacing it with the 'Roam Unlimited' plan at $165 monthly, effective February 23, 2025. This move has raised concerns among users due to the financial impact, especially after previous price hikes.
Pakistan's Senate IT Committee is considering the launch of Starlink, pending security clearance and licenses from the PTA, with a resolution expected within a month. The discussions also touched on Musk's controversial remarks and the urgency of finalizing the Personal Data Protection Bill, highlighting the sensitive nature of satellite internet services in the country.
January 22, 2025
Starlink has launched a new point of presence in Nairobi, Kenya, cutting latency to around 30 milliseconds for African users. This move aims to enhance service quality and stimulate local broadband competition.
Elon Musk announced SpaceX's Starlink Direct-to-Cell, offering free emergency communication globally, aiming to aid disaster-stricken areas where networks fail. The service, with satellites already in orbit, will start with text messaging in 2024, expanding to voice calls in 2025, despite concerns over financial viability.
airBaltic has successfully tested SpaceX's Starlink high-speed internet on an Airbus A220-300, aiming to be the first in Europe to offer it for free. Installation is set to start in Q1 2025, pending EASA approval.
Starlink is set to expand its satellite internet services in Africa, launching in several countries by 2025, including Senegal, Chad, and Uganda. The company is addressing high demand by pausing sales in urban areas and plans to bolster service availability with additional satellite launches.
Elon Musk's Starlink is eyeing entry into Pakistan, sparking excitement but also raising questions about regulatory and security challenges. High costs and data security concerns could limit widespread adoption, but successful integration could boost internet access and economic opportunities.
Elon Musk's Starlink awaits Pakistani government approval for launch, with the PTA confirming regulatory discussions are underway. The service aims to improve internet access in underserved regions.
KDDI has launched free Wi-Fi on the Hamayu ferry using Starlink's satellite service, offering speeds up to 220MB/s. Previously limited to land-based stations, this move enhances connectivity on its 1,000km route.