- Starlink Mobile now connects smartphones directly to satellites.
- The service allows you to send SMS and share your location in areas without coverage.
- Compatibility is currently limited to recent models from Apple, Google, Samsung, and Motorola.
- Deployment in Spain is expected in late 2025 or early 2026.
Mobile connectivity is undergoing a historic transformation. thanks to Starlink Mobile, SpaceX's new service that allows certain phones to connect directly to satellites when there's no terrestrial signal. This feature is already a reality in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan, although its launch in Spain is still planned for late 2025 or early 2026, pending the necessary agreements with national operators.
Unlike traditional satellite connection, Starlink mobile does not require antennas or routers.Users with compatible models can send and receive text messages and share their location when outside conventional mobile networks. This new feature promises to bridge so-called "dead zones" and facilitate communication even in the most remote locations.
How does Starlink Mobile work and what makes it different?
The key to Starlink mobile lies in a huge network of low-orbit satellites. in constant motion around the Earth. These satellites act like cell phone towers in space: when a compatible mobile phone detects that there is no terrestrial coverage, it automatically connects to the nearest satellite. The process is completely automatic; the user doesn't need to configure anything or install additional apps or accessories.
Sending and receiving SMS and sharing real-time location These are the main current functions. Starlink has focused on making this technology useful, above all, in emergency situations, when traveling to rural areas, or for those living in areas with limited telecommunications infrastructure.
The service, free during the beta phase, is not yet designed for data usage (web browsing, videos, or calls), although these options are expected to be activated progressively, along with global expansion and agreements with more operators.
Mobile models compatible with Starlink Mobile
Starlink mobile support is currently limited. to the latest models from Apple, Google, Samsung, and Motorola, all of which were released in 2020 or later. The official confirmed list includes:
- Apple: iPhone 14, iPhone 15 and iPhone 16
- Google: Pixel 9 onwards
- Samsung: Galaxy A14 to A54, Galaxy S21 to S25, Galaxy Z Flip 3 to Z Flip 6, Galaxy Z Fold 3 onwards
- Motorola: Razr 2024, Razr Plus 2024, Moto Edge and Moto G Power 5G 2024
The company itself expects the list of compatible phones to expand as new updates are released, agreements with carriers are developed, and more devices reach the market. If your phone isn't on this list, it won't be able to benefit from this service for the time being.
Current advantages and limitations of Starlink mobile
Among the most notable advantages is global coverage Even in rural, mountainous, or non-infrastructure areas. The system activates automatically: if it doesn't detect a network, the phone connects to the nearest Starlink satellite, without any external settings or apps.
In beta phase, Starlink mobile is free to use. and is included as an add-on in the mobile plans offered by operators in countries where it is already operational. However, the company warns that it is necessary to be in open areas with a direct view of the sky, as obstacles such as tall buildings or dense forests can block the signal.
Current limitations include the inability to make calls or use mobile data., and the phone's battery consumption may increase as it requires more power to communicate with satellites. Devices released before 2020 cannot access Direct-to-Cell technology.
International deployment and planned date for Spain
Starlink mobile is now operational in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Japan., where collaboration with national operators such as T-Mobile and Rogers has enabled its launch. Expansion in Spain and much of Europe still depends on the signing of agreements with local operators, a key step to ensure its stable and legal operation.
The most recent forecasts place the arrival of Starlink mobile in Spain between late 2025 and early 2026. Meanwhile, traditional Starlink services for homes, businesses, and travelers are available in the country, offering satellite internet via antenna and router, with coverage that continues to grow with the increase in the number of satellites in orbit (over 6.700 and constantly expanding).
The progressive rollout of Starlink Mobile and the inclusion of more compatible models make it easier to connect anywhere, eliminating dependence on towers, cables, or traditional networks.
