Starlink, a satellite internet company owned by SpaceX, is making significant strides in revolutionizing mobile connectivity with its Direct to Cell service. The company is set to launch this service in the European Union, starting with Spain as the first country in the bloc to benefit from it.
The announcement was made on X, confirming Starlink’s partnership with MasOrange to bring Direct to Cell to Spain. This innovative service allows standard smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites, eliminating the need for traditional terrestrial coverage in remote or underserved areas. MasOrange described the collaboration as a “pioneering satellite-mobile connection solution” that showcases their commitment to innovation.
Direct to Cell has already connected over 12 million people worldwide and serves over 6 million users monthly who rely on it for coverage where traditional cellular networks are unavailable. In Spain, the initial offering will support basic connectivity such as texting and emergency communications, with plans to expand to voice and data services as the technology advances and regulatory approvals are secured.
This launch in Spain is just one of many moves by Starlink to expand its Direct to Cell service globally. The company previously introduced the service in Europe through a partnership with Ukraine’s Kyivstar and is now gearing up to launch in the Philippines with Globe Telecom and in the U.K. with Virgin Media O2. Additionally, Starlink has teamed up with Airtel Africa to extend coverage across parts of the African continent.
Looking ahead, SpaceX, the parent company of Starlink, is exploring new possibilities for Direct to Cell. The company plans to test the service independently of traditional telecom operators using its own wireless spectrum acquired through a deal with EchoStar. Recent trademarks for “Starlink Mobile” hint at a potential standalone satellite cellular service that could compete directly with terrestrial carriers in the future.
With Spain leading the way in the EU, Starlink’s Direct to Cell service is poised to transform mobile connectivity by bridging coverage gaps and eliminating dead zones. This advancement signals a promising future where “no service” screens could soon be a thing of the past.