From CNBC:

SpaceX and T-Mobile successfully sent text messages via Starlink satellites, with plans to bring direct-to-device cell service to market in the coming year. The recent test is part of a broader push to connect unmodified phones directly to satellites, with SpaceX receiving authorization to test the technology last month. The company plans to offer D2D text service this year and expand to voice, data, and internet of things services by 2025. So far, SpaceX has amassed over 2.3 million customers worldwide for its Starlink internet service.

Major players are partnering to roll out direct-to-device (D2D) service, with Apple teaming up with Globalstar to provide “Emergency SOS with Satellite” service, while Qualcomm ended its partnership with Iridium as the latter pivots to a new D2D effort called “Project Stardust.” Iridium plans to test its D2D service in 2025 and begin rolling it out by 2026. This is part of a growing trend in the space economy, with an increasing demand and high interest in adding D2D capabilities to satellite networks.



Read more: SpaceX, T-Mobile send first texts via Starlink satellites