Starlink’s Nationwide Satellite Texting Service Launches in New Zealand for First Time

A Global First: One NZ Powers Nationwide Satellite Text Messaging Service via Starlink

In a significant milestone for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation, One NZ has become the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service using Starlink. This achievement marks a major step forward in the development of satellite-based communication services, which have the potential to bring reliable and high-speed connectivity to underserved or hard-to-reach areas.

Partnerships with Leading Carriers

Starlink has already partnered with several leading carriers around the world, including T-Mobile in the US. These partnerships are a crucial step towards widespread adoption of satellite-based communication services. In Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile, Starlink has established partnerships with local carriers to offer satellite text messaging services.

Current Limitations

While the One NZ Satellite TXT service has achieved nationwide coverage, there are still some limitations to note. Currently, only four phone models are supported: 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.

Service Performance

During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes, according to One NZ. However, this may increase to "10 minutes or longer" during the first few months as the service continues to be tested and refined. One NZ’s Experience and Commercial Director Joe Goddard explained that the company is still testing the capabilities of the Starlink technology.

Improved Performance Over Time

While text messages may take longer to send initially, they will get quicker over time as the service improves. In an interview, Joe Goddard noted that "we continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better." He also highlighted the importance of a staggered rollout, which allows the company to fine-tune the technology before expanding its capabilities.

Future Developments

The One NZ Satellite TXT service will initially only offer text messaging, but voice calling and data services are expected to become available in the future. This expansion will provide customers with greater flexibility and convenience when using their satellite-enabled devices.

Free Service for Existing Customers

For existing customers on paid-monthly plans, the One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free to use. However, it’s unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will be required to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage. One NZ has not revealed any details about potential fees or charges for using the service.

Pilot Program with T-Mobile

Prior to its nationwide launch in New Zealand, Starlink had already tested its text-by-satellite service with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in October. This pilot program demonstrated the effectiveness of satellite-based communication services in emergency situations.

FCC Approval for US Service

In November, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted approval for T-Mobile to offer the Starlink beta program in the US. This move marks a significant step towards widespread adoption of satellite-based communication services in North America.

US Beta Program Launch

T-Mobile is set to sign up customers to test the US Starlink beta program "early next year." While details about the launch are still scarce, this development promises to bring satellite-to-cell connectivity to even more users around the world.

Conclusion

The achievement of a nationwide coverage milestone in New Zealand marks a significant step forward for SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation. With partnerships with leading carriers and a growing list of supported devices, the service has the potential to transform the way people communicate in underserved or hard-to-reach areas. As the technology continues to improve and expand its capabilities, we can expect even more exciting developments from this innovative service.