SpaceX Changes Direct to Cell Name to Starlink Mobile, Targets 25 Million Active Users by End of 2026

JAKARTA - SpaceX officially changed the name of the Direct to Cell service to Starlink Mobile. This name change was revealed along with SpaceX's ambitious plans and goals for the service.

This first generation Starlink Mobile is supported by 650 satellites and has successfully connected more than 16 million users through its partner operators. SpaceX estimates that this number of active users will reach 25 million by the end of 2026.

This technology is claimed to have the largest 4G coverage in the world based on geographical area because it uses orbit satellites. This allows users in areas without cellular signal to still get an internet connection.

SpaceX plans to launch a second-generation satellite constellation starting in mid-next year using the Starship vehicle. Each Starship launch is capable of carrying more than 50 satellites to accelerate network deployment.

Currently, the space company is focusing on deploying 1,200 satellites within six months to support global internet coverage. This latest generation of satellites is designed to have antennas five times larger than previous versions.

Data speeds on the latest version are also targeted to reach peak speeds of up to 150Mbps per user. Currently, the available services are still limited with an average speed of around 4Mbps for certain applications.

This second generation satellite is expected to have a data density almost 100 times that of the first version. This innovation can be achieved by using smaller point beams and other advanced features on the satellite device.