SpaceX's Starlink to Offer Phone Connectivity from Orbit with Smartphone-Compatible Satellites

SpaceX plans to launch Starlink satellites with LTE modems to provide phone connectivity starting with text in 2024.

Satellite connectivity currently requires large, specialized hardware. Starlink aims to work with normal smartphones.

Starlink satellites will be in lower orbit and larger than existing networks, allowing better connections.

No hardware or firmware changes needed for phones, promises "seamless" text, voice, data.

Initial launch on Falcon 9, eventually on Starship for larger satellites. Service upgrades depend on Starship.