SpaceX launched the first six Starlink satellites with direct to cell capabilities in its first mission of 2024 on Tuesday evening. SpaceX and partner T-Mobile say the service will provide coverage in cellular dead zones in the most remote locations. The first six direct to cell satellites will first be used to test the service in the United States, Jessie Anderson, SpaceX structures engineering manager said during the Jan. 2 webcast. This capability will first enable text messaging, and then voice and data coverage will follow after more satellites are launched. The Starlink satellites use partner spectrum to operate the service over their respective countries.
