One NZ has announced that it has become the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via SpaceX’s Starlink network. This milestone marks a significant achievement for One NZ and demonstrates the potential of satellite technology to provide reliable communication services even in areas with limited or no traditional infrastructure.
Partnerships and Expanding Reach
In addition to its partnership with One NZ, Starlink has also signed up partners in Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile. This global reach is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing satellite connectivity to remote and underserved areas around the world.
One of the notable partnerships announced recently is with T-Mobile in the US. This collaboration will enable T-Mobile customers to access Starlink’s beta program early next year. The partnership is part of a larger effort by T-Mobile to expand its network coverage and provide reliable communication services to customers in areas affected by natural disasters or other disruptions.
Eligible Devices and Service Limitations
At present, only four phone models are supported for the Starlink text messaging service: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. However, One NZ has indicated that eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year.
During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes, although this may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months. One NZ’s Experience and Commercial Director Joe Goddard noted that "we continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better."
Goddard also emphasized that text messages will take longer to send but will become quicker over time as the technology improves. The company has announced that customers can currently send and receive text messages only, although voice calling and data services are expected to be available in the future.
Pricing and Availability
The One NZ Satellite TXT service is free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will be required to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
As part of its ongoing testing and development efforts, One NZ is offering the Starlink text messaging service to a limited number of customers as part of a staggered rollout. This approach allows the company to test the capabilities of the technology and identify areas for improvement before expanding the service to a wider audience.
Comparison with Previous Pilot Programs
Starlink’s text-by-satellite service was previously piloted in October with T-Mobile customers affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton. The success of this pilot program laid the groundwork for the current rollout, which has marked a significant milestone in the development of satellite communication technology.
In November, T-Mobile was granted FCC approval for its Starlink beta program, paving the way for the company to sign up customers to test the service early next year.
Conclusion
The announcement by One NZ that it is now offering nationwide coverage via Starlink’s satellite network marks a significant achievement in the development of communication technology. As the telecommunications industry continues to evolve, the potential of satellite technology to provide reliable and affordable communication services will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role.
With its global reach, partnerships with major telecommunications companies, and commitment to ongoing testing and development, SpaceX’s Starlink service is poised to revolutionize the way we communicate in remote and underserved areas around the world.
