How Telstra’s new satellite-to-mobile messaging lets you text using Starlink

Today Telstra has become the first Australian telco to turn on its satellite-to-mobile messaging capability, powered by SpaceX’s Starlink constellation in low earth orbit. This means customers will be able to send and receive text messages in remote locations beyond the Telstra mobile network. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, and how to access it.

Phones will show a satellite symbol in the top right when connected to the service.Credit:

What is satellite-to-mobile text messaging?

The technology involves a constellation (or mesh) of satellites in low earth orbit that can communicate with smartphones and mobile networks. The idea is that if a user does not have any mobile reception, and they have a clear view of the sky, they’ll be able to connect to a satellite to act as a bridge between their phone and the network.

Telcos including Telstra and Optus have been working with SpaceX to integrate a product it offers, called Direct to Cell, into their networks. Apple offers a similar service using satellites operated by Globalstar, allowing iMessages over satellite, but it’s available only in the US and Canada. Australian iPhone users can use Apple’s satellite service for emergency messages only.

How will Telstra’s Satellite Messaging work?

The service comes at no extra cost for customers with a Telstra upfront plan, plus a supported device with up-to-date software. When the phone is not connected to mobile reception, it will automatically attempt to contact the satellite constellation, showing a notification at the top right of the device, and will use that connection to send text messages, including emojis, to any Australian or international number via Telstra’s core network.

Users will also be able to receive messages via satellite. If Telstra’s network detects that a user has left its network, and someone is trying to message that user, the message will be routed to the satellite for delivery. It’s similar to how roaming works if a user travels to another country. By 2027, Telstra’s satellite-to-mobile service may expand to include voice calls and (slow) data.

Telstra technicians tested the service outside the telco’s network with thousands of text messages.Credit:

What devices are supported?

Right now, at the very beginning phase of the rollout, Telstra is only supporting phones in the Samsung Galaxy S25 series. But it is expected to quickly expand to other devices, presumably including the latest iPhones.

Smartphones will need to have the appropriate hardware built in to contact the satellites, and many current phones from major brands do. For example, iPhones from 13 onwards support satellite SOS, and Google’s Pixel 9 series have satellite features too. But Telstra will need to work with the brands to roll out software updates that enable its specific feature to work. Telstra did not give a specific schedule for rolling out the capability to all compatible devices, but suggested a time frame of weeks rather than months.

Why is satellite messaging beneficial compared with normal text messaging?

The footprint of Starlink’s constellation covers Telstra black spots across the whole of mainland Australia and Tasmania, excluding the Australian Radio Quiet Zone in Western Australia and remote offshore territories and islands. So while texting via satellite isn’t as convenient (it takes longer, and requires a clear view of the sky), it allows for messaging in locations where the Telstra network does not reach.

This means that people living in regional areas with no access to Telstra’s mobile network can use the service to send and receive messages – for example, if a farmer is outside and not in range of the home Wi-Fi. It will also apply to people working in or passing through black spots, which could include miners on a dig site, hikers and campers, or those on long drives.

What is Elon Musk’s Starlink?

SpaceX, founded by billionaire Elon Musk, is a US-based space technology company. It began launching Starlink satellites in 2019. It has more than 7000 satellites in the constellation, synchronised in low earth orbit to communicate with receivers on the ground. The constellation is primarily used to provide internet connectivity, and it has more than 5 million commercial subscribers.

The service has also made headlines for playing a significant role in the connectivity of Ukraine’s forces during the current war with Russia. More recently, Starlink has been accused of allowing its satellites to power massive scam factories in Myanmar, staffed largely by trafficked captives.

How can I access it?

Starlink is powering an increasing number of satellite connectivity services in Australia. You can order a Starlink dish directly from SpaceX, either for your home or as a portable unit that can supply internet on the go. There are also business products that can keep you connected globally, even on boats or aeroplanes.

Telstra’s home satellite connection plans are also powered by Starlink.

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