One NZ has become the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink, marking a significant milestone for SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell technology. This achievement comes as part of a partnership between One NZ and Starlink, which has also signed up partners in Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile.
A Step Forward in Global Connectivity
The introduction of the One NZ Satellite TXT service via Starlink represents a major breakthrough in global connectivity. With this technology, users can now send and receive text messages using satellite signals, bridging gaps in traditional cellular networks. This development has far-reaching implications for remote communities, emergency responders, and individuals living in areas with limited or no cellular coverage.
Initial Rollout and Supported Devices
The initial rollout of the One NZ Satellite TXT service supports four phone models: 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 the technology continues to evolve.
Eligibility and Pricing
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will be required to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
Performance and Future Developments
According to One NZ’s Experience and Commercial Director Joe Goddard, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes during the initial rollout. However, this may increase to "10 minutes or longer" during the first few months as the service is further refined.
Goddard emphasized that the One NZ Satellite TXT service is an initial offering that 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. For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
The company has also announced plans to expand its offerings beyond text messaging. In the future, users can expect to access voice calling and data services via the Starlink network.
Partnerships and Global Expansion
Starlink’s partnership with One NZ is just one example of the technology’s growing global presence. The company has already signed up partners in Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile, while also partnering with T-Mobile in the US.
T-Mobile was granted FCC approval for its Starlink text-by-satellite service in November, paving the way for widespread adoption. The company is now signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program "early next year," marking a significant step towards commercialization.
Conclusion
The nationwide coverage milestone achieved by One NZ’s Satellite TXT service via Starlink represents a major breakthrough in global connectivity. With its potential to bridge gaps in traditional cellular networks, this technology has far-reaching implications for remote communities and emergency responders worldwide. As the service continues to evolve and expand to more devices, it is likely to play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of telecommunications.
Key Takeaways
- One NZ has become the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink.
- The initial rollout supports four phone models: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro.
- Eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year as the technology continues to evolve.
- The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans.
- Future developments include voice calling and data services via the Starlink network.
Related Information
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