Starlink’s ‘Direct to Cell’ to enable free global calls and texts 

In 2025, SpaceX’s Starlink will scale its “Direct to Cell” network to allow everyone worldwide to call and text each other for free. 

Satellite phones have had these features for years, but their high cost is inaccessible to most. 

READ: How to rent Starlink internet kits

This Elon Musk company will launch a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network to deliver 4G mobile services to standard smartphones. 

In other words, the Direct to Cell will work with any phone with LTE enabled.

Direct to Cell to spark new global communication era

Starlink cited the following examples in its letter to the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC):

• Apple iPhone 13 and iPhone 14
• Samsung Galaxy series
• Google Pixel phones

The official Starlink website says it will function “wherever you can see the sky.” Moreover, you won’t need “changes to hardware, firmware, or special apps.” 

It also removes the need for cell towers, which usually limit conventional telecom providers from expanding their services. 

This technology could enable remote areas to benefit from global digitalization. For example, those in secluded provinces might use it to launch online businesses.

It could also be a boon to overseas Filipino workers who want to stay connected with their families. 

Starlink also aims to expand Direct to Cell to “data and Internet of Things (IoT) services in 2025.”

IoT refers to the tech trend of connecting everything to the Internet, from home security sensors to smartwatches. 

Soon, Starlink will let you browse the Internet for free, potentially ushering in a world where everyone’s connected 24/7.

At the time of writing, Direct to Cell is available in the following countries:

• Australia
• Canada
• New Zealand
• Japan
• Switzerland
• Chile
• Peru
• Ukraine
• United States

Starlink is also available in the Philippines but has not specified offering Direct to Cell in the country.