SpaceX demonstrated the first-ever live video call on X from a direct-to-cell Starlink satellite in a post to the platform on Tuesday.
What Happened: Elon Musk‘s ever-growing satellite venture will partner with T-Mobile Us Inc TMUS to provide the service this summer. In February, SpaceX made a text-based post using Starlink satellites.
The 22-second video depicts two men conducting an X video call using Starlink. Musk bought X, formerly Twitter, in 2022. The video appeared to work without serious interruptions in connectivity or delay.
Why it Matters: T-Mobile announced its partnership with SpaceX in 2022, “pairing SpaceX's breakthrough satellite constellation with T-Mobile's industry-leading wireless network.”
The company began launching satellites in early 2024.
Starlink’s technological advancements represent large developments in the field of satellite connectivity. The technology works under heavy tree cover, which blocks traditional cell service.
According to the FCC, several regions of the U.S. have no access to cell service, including rural parts of the Western U.S. and areas in Appalachia. Starlink could be a vital bridge for those living in less developed regions.
Musk has received both praise and criticism for the proliferation of Starlink. His introduction of Starlink in Indonesia drew appreciation from Indonesian officials. However, his discontinuance of Starlink in Ukraine amid the country’s war with Russia drew criticism.
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