A Global First: One NZ Powers Nationwide Satellite Text Messaging Service
In a significant milestone for SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell service, Starlink has achieved nationwide coverage in New Zealand. The achievement is all the more impressive considering the limitations still associated with this cutting-edge technology.
Partnerships Abound as Starlink Expands Globally
One NZ, the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via Starlink, has not been alone in its endeavors. Starlink has secured partnerships with various international companies, including:
- Canada: TBA
- Australia: TBA
- Japan: SoftBank Mobile Corp.
- Peru: Entel PerĂş
- Switzerland: Swisscom
- Chile: Entel Chile
In the United States, Starlink has partnered with major carrier T-Mobile to bring this innovative service to its customers.
Eligible Devices: A Small But Growing List
For now, only a select few phone models are compatible with One NZ’s Satellite TXT service:
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- OPPO Find X8 Pro
Eligibility is expected to expand to more devices in the coming year, ensuring that a wider range of users can benefit from this groundbreaking technology.
Initial Performance: Room for Improvement
During the initial rollout, One NZ reports that most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes. However, this time frame may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months as the service continues to mature.
"We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better," said Joe Goddard, Experience and Commercial Director at One NZ. "For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
A Staggered Rollout: Phased Expansion of Services
One NZ is taking a deliberate approach to introducing new features, starting with basic text messaging capabilities. As the service continues to evolve, customers can expect:
- Voice calling: Future availability
- Data services: Future availability
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will need to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
A Brief Glimpse into the Past: Starlink’s Piloted Service
Before achieving nationwide coverage in New Zealand, Starlink piloted its text-by-satellite service with T-Mobile customers affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in October. Following FCC approval in November, T-Mobile is now signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program early next year.
The achievements of One NZ and Starlink are a testament to the innovative spirit driving technological advancements in the telecommunications industry. As this technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more exciting developments on the horizon.
