Maxim editors choose and evaluate products independently . If you make purchases via affiliate links, we might receive commissions, aiding in supporting our platform. testing .
SpaceX and T-Mobile are pushing for regulations to be eased, allowing outdated phones to connect with SpaceX’s mobile Starlink service.
T-Mobile is preparing to launch support For Cellular Starlink on its network in July. The service was already available. supports 50 phone models , including the iPhone 14 and more recent versions as well as various Samsung Galaxy devices. However, based on a letter That SpaceX and T-Mobile submitted to the FCC this week includes a "paperwork mandate" within the FCC's present regulations that stops certain "older" phone models from using the service, despite them being capable of connecting via satellites technologically.
As per the additional coverage provided by the FCC through space (SCS) rules , a cell phone company needs to obtain and be granted a " Part 25 Certification for a mobile device to legally offer satellite connectivity has been established under Part 25 regulations. Even though certain manufacturers have submitted applications for these certifications, others may choose not to do so. Consequently, this could lead T-Mobile to restrict those devices from accessing cellular Starlink services, according to both parties involved.
According to the regulations, customers are unable to utilize this potentially lifesaving new service unless the maker of their current equipment requests an amended approval for it," the correspondence states.
"Worse still, consumers lack the power to compel manufacturers to update their device approvals, which could lead to serious repercussions during emergencies when secure communication system connections are crucial," the letter continues.
This could lead to consumer confusion and may hinder the cellular Starlink service’s ability to assist customers who lack conventional cellular coverage, according to SpaceX and T-Mobile. In reaction, both firms are seeking an exemption allowing SpaceX to transmit satellite connections directly to FCC-certified phones that have been approved for other wireless services but not specifically for Part 25 satellite connectivity.
The exemption would extend to smartphones that obtained approval as of or prior to June 29, 2024, which marked the start date for the Federal Communications Commission’s expedited procedure for granting Part 25 certifications. The firms argue that "earlier-approved gadgets lacked this immediate chance, hence their end-users shouldn’t face disadvantages due to this discrepancy." They further point out that the FCC had previously granted exceptions to this regulation during approvals for emergency satellite communications services. disaster areas.
The letter does not specify particular phone models. However, at present, the cellular Starlink service is exclusively compatible with Pixel 9 devices and excludes earlier Google models. Notably, Chinese manufacturers such as OnePlus, Xiaomi, and TCL do not appear on T-Mobile’s roster of phones approved for use with cellular Starlink.
Previously, SpaceX requested the FCC to loosen the Part 25 regulation, however, a year ago, the commission declined this request. saying The requirement would enable the FCC to develop a publicly accessible database allowing individuals to check which devices support satellite connectivity. This certification might also be "useful in cases of harmful interference where we may need to take enforcement actions," as stated by the FCC at that time.