T-Mobile and Starlink Partnership: How Satellite Technology Enhances Software Solutions

Source: T-Mobile

T-Mobile announced its partnership with Starlink, which aims to eliminate dead zones in the country. Dubbed “Coverage Above and Beyond,” the project will enable mobile phones to connect to satellites. The connection will provide around 2 to 4 Megabits per second in total connection. This should be enough for users to send text messages, MMS messages, and use select instant messaging apps in areas without traditional service availability. The only requirement is to have a clear view of the sky.

T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert said during the launching event that their company’s vision is to include the service for free in their most popular plans. On the other hand, they also want to make it available to users with low-cost plans for a monthly service fee. They’re aiming for the monthly fee to be lower than the currently available satellite connectivity services.

When it comes to hardware, the carrier said that current 5G phones will be able to use the network. Elon Musk, CEO of Starlink’s operator, SpaceX, added that instant messaging apps like iMessage or WhatsApp, will need to coordinate with T-Mobile and Starlink to get their services to connect properly with the satellite connection. Musk added that the connection is not for high bandwidth but “if there aren’t too many people in the cell zone, you may potentially even have a little bit of video.”

T-Mobile is targeting the launch of the satellite-to-cellular service by the end of next year. Once available, coverage will be “everywhere in the continental US, Hawaii, parts of Alaska, Puerto Rico, and territorial waters.”

Leveraging Satellite Data in Software Solutions

The connectivity tie-up between T-Mobile and Starlink is another testament to the growing satellite industry. It used to be that this industry was reserved for multi-billion dollar companies. But with technological advancements, even small players can take advantage of satellite data. On the latest count, there are more than 4,500 satellites orbiting Earth. These are combinations of government and private entities.

In the realm of software development, integrating satellite data can enhance the capabilities of a software product. Vendors can see opportunities in major industries, including food production, maritime, energy and infrastructure, and forestry and land use.

For example, satellite imagery analytics is used in smart farming solutions. This technology helps in precision agriculture, livestock raising, and farm management. With satellites as data sources, stakeholders can learn more about their crops, soil health, and weather conditions.

Satellite technology is also used to monitor and manage livestock. Virtual fencing, for instance, allows ranchers to fit cattle with a collar programmed with exclusion zones. Meanwhile, aquaculture also relies on satellite communication for its digital tools. Salmon raisers, for example, can track harmful algal bloom and receive early warnings.

But it’s not just the food industry. Other industries and organizations now use software tools that leverage satellite data. The finance and insurance industry is one of them. Satellite data providers can integrate their services with cloud-based business applications. This enables insurance and finance companies to accomplish various aspects related to their business such as risk management, investment decisions, and claims and credit validation.

Governments and regulatory agencies also benefit from using satellite data. Satellite images can show illegal activities in different territories. They’re also important in GIS and mapping applications. Governments can make timely, data-driven decisions for safer communities. They can also use satellite data for greater visibility over their natural resources.