Currently, smartphones that support satellite connectivity are scarce, especially in the global market. However, the number of compatible products is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. In the meantime, mobile carriers are working on fine-tuning the technology. Today, T-Mobile announced that it successfully conducted the first test of sending and receiving wireless emergency alerts via satellite.
Wireless emergency alerts via satellite have the potential to save lives
Wireless emergency alerts (WEA) are especially important during catastrophic events. Tornadoes or hurricanes frequently cause cellular signal loss in the affected areas. This means that users may not receive key information that could help them save their lives. With that in mind, T-Mobile conducted the first test of wireless emergency alerts via satellite connectivity.
Satellite telecommunications allow you not to depend on classic mobile networks and signals to send and receive messages/calls. Therefore, it is an ideal technology for situations involving catastrophes or natural disasters. In 2022, T-Mobile partnered with Starlink, Elon Musk’s company, to develop its own satellite connectivity network. Currently, Starlink has more than 175 direct-to-smartphone satellites in low-earth orbit. The company intends to launch more satellites to expand coverage in the coming months.
T-Mobile simulated a hypothetical emergency evacuation situation
The test consisted of a hypothetical evacuation warning simulation. T-Mobile sent the WEA to a 217-mile height, where a Starlink satellite captured it and transmitted it to compatible devices in the affected area. Then, a T-Mobile smartphone received the evacuation signal in a process that took a few seconds. The rapid transmission and reception time will be essential for emergency situations.
T-Mobile is not limiting this life-saving service to its clients. With its technology, compatible phones from other carriers will also be able to receive emergency alerts via satellite, according to the company.
Calls, SMS, and internet plans via satellite are also in the works
T-Mobile is also working on offering voice, text, and internet connectivity plans through satellite networks. These services will be exclusive to T-Mobile customers, as they are not designed solely for emergencies. Satellite telecommunications will be especially useful in remote areas without access to cell towers. In the United States, there are about 500,000 square miles of land that are unreachable by mobile signals.
Meanwhile, carriers like AT&T and Verizon are working on their own satellite connectivity services. Some iPhone and Google Pixel models also offer this service through Globalstar and Skylo’s satellite infrastructures, respectively.
2024-09-12 15:09:11