SpaceX cleared to test satellite phone service via Starlink
SpaceX has got approval to run tests of a proposed service that allows unmodified smartphones to make calls via a satellite link.
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SpaceX has 180 days to carry out its trials, and said in its
application these will involve approximately 840 satellites with direct-to-cellular payloads, approximately 60 of which will be serving
handsets in the US under this experimental authorization at any given
time.
The tests are set to be conducted using frequencies in the 1910-1915
MHz and 1990-1995 MHz bands, otherwise known as the PCS G Block, with
the cooperation of T-Mobile USA, which is the licensee of these bands.
T-Mobile and SpaceX announced plans last year to use satellites in low
Earth orbit to provide a cellphone service, claiming this would extend
coverage to remote locations across the US and its territorial waters.
https://www.theregister.com/2023/12/15/spacex_cleared_to_test_satellite/
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