- Starlink Direct-to-Cell allows mobile phones to connect to satellite internet without terrestrial coverage.
- Compatible models include recent iPhone, Samsung, Google, and Motorola devices.
- The connection is automatic and is activated when the mobile phone is out of range of traditional networks.
- The global rollout is underway, although agreements with operators in Spain are still awaited.
Internet connectivity in rural and remote areas is about to undergo a transformation. thanks to the arrival of the services of Starlink Direct-to-Cell, an advancement that allows certain mobile phones to connect directly to satellites without the need for terrestrial coverage or external antennas. This technology, driven by SpaceX in collaboration with T-Mobile, opens a new era of digital access in places where conventional infrastructures cannot reach.
Until now, accessing the Internet in remote areas required satellite dishes or special equipment.With the new initiative, You just need to have a compatible mobile phone and be outside the traditional network for the satellite connection to be activated automatically., providing services such as messaging, emergency calls, and real-time location.
Which phones are compatible with Starlink?
Initial compatibility covers a wide range of recent models of the main brands in the market, covering both devices Apple and Samsung, Google y MotorolaBelow are the models already confirmed to connect directly to the Starlink satellite network:
- Apple : iPhone 13, iPhone 14, iPhone 15, iPhone 16 (all versions).
- Google: Pixel 9, Pixel 9a, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold and later models.
- Motorola: Razr and Razr Plus (2024/2025), Moto Edge 2024/2025, Moto G Power 5G (2024/2025), Moto G 2024, Moto G Stylus 2024, Moto G 5G 2024, Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 and Razr Ultra 2025.
- Samsung: Galaxy A14, A15 5G, A16 5G SE, A25 SE, A35, A36, A36 SE, A53, A54, A56 5G SE, S21, S22, S23, S24, S25 series (in standard, Plus, Ultra and Fan Edition versions), Galaxy XCover6 Pro, XCover7 Pro, Z Flip3 to Z Flip7 and Z Fold3 to Z Fold7.
To use the service it is essential to have the latest update of the operating system and that the terminal is officially supported by the Starlink Direct-to-Cell network. On some models, features such as sending MMS or audio messages will be available first on Android and gradually on iOS.
How direct satellite connection works
Satellite network activation is done without user intervention: when the compatible mobile phone detects the absence of traditional mobile coverage, automatically connects to the Starlink service through a technology called Direct-to-Cell. At the moment, Available features focus on basic messaging, emergency services (such as access to 911 or its local equivalent), and real-time location..
Starlink infrastructure enables a Virtually global coverage, as its constellation of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites guarantees low latency and stability where cell phone towers can't reach. The user receives a notification or sees on their mobile screen that they're connected to the satellite network, usually with the message "T-Mobile SpaceX" or similar.
Energy consumption may be increased by intensive use of the satellite connection., as it requires more power than a landline connection. However, This is especially useful in emergency situations or when traveling through remote areas..
Where is the service available and how much does it cost?
The initial deployment of the service is already active in the United States. thanks to the alliance with T-Mobile, and there are plans to expand to other markets such as Argentina or Canada. In Spain, although Starlink has been providing satellite internet through traditional kits for some time, Direct connection from mobile still requires an agreement with local operators, which is expected to arrive between late 2025 and early 2026.
As for pricing, in the United States, T-Mobile customers can access Starlink Direct-to-Cell for around 10 euros per month., although there are high-end plans where the service is included or will be free, at least for the first year. For other regions and partner companies, conditions may vary, so it is advisable to consult the official Starlink website and the operator for updated information.
During the early stages, The possibilities will be limited to messaging and the use of essential services, but SpaceX and T-Mobile executives have already announced that in the coming months they will begin testing to be able to use mobile data in increasingly advanced ways, opening the door to conventional satellite navigation and calls.
