Starlink Direct to Cell: The First Generation
How did SpaceX build the first large direct-to-device constellation, what does it deliver, and what has it taught?
Chapter summary
SpaceX launched about 660 direct-to-cell satellites between January 2024 and June 2025, of which about 637 were active in October 2026 (CelesTrak).
Key takeaways
- 1
Each is a Starlink satellite carrying an additional phased-array payload that acts as a cell tower in a partner operator's LTE spectrum.
- 2
With T-Mobile in the United States the service, branded T-Satellite, launched commercially in July 2025 for messaging and added app data in October 2025, at $10 a month for most customers.
- 3
SpaceX reports about 7.4 million monthly unique devices across about 30 countries.
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