One NZ has become the first telecommunications company globally to power a nationwide satellite text messaging service via SpaceX’s Starlink. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the company, which has been working tirelessly to expand its services beyond traditional cellular networks.
A Global Partnership with Starlink
Starlink has partnered with several companies across the globe, including T-Mobile in the US, to bring satellite-based connectivity to remote areas. In addition to New Zealand, Starlink has also signed up partners in Canada, Australia, Japan, Peru, Switzerland, and Chile. This global partnership is a testament to the company’s commitment to providing high-speed internet access to underserved communities.
Eligibility and Supported Devices
Currently, only four phone models are supported for One NZ Satellite TXT service: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. However, eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year.
Initial Rollout Limitations
During the initial rollout of One NZ Satellite TXT, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes. However, this may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months. According to One NZ’s Experience and Commercial Director Joe Goddard, "We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better. For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."
Rollout Timeline
One NZ has announced a staggered rollout of the technology, with customers beginning to access satellite-to-cell coverage from today. Initially, only text messaging services will be available, but in the future, voice calling and data services are expected to become available.
Pricing and Accessibility
The One NZ Satellite TXT service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans. However, it remains unclear whether new customers or those on other contracts will need to pay an additional fee to access satellite-to-cell coverage.
Previous Pilots and Future Plans
Starlink’s text-by-satellite service was previously piloted with T-Mobile customers in areas affected by Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in October. In November, T-Mobile was granted FCC approval for the service, paving the way for its expansion across the US.
T-Mobile has announced that it will be signing up customers to test the US Starlink beta program early next year. This marks an exciting development for satellite-based connectivity in the US, and we can expect more updates on this front in the coming months.
Conclusion
The nationwide coverage milestone achieved by One NZ is a significant step forward for satellite-to-cell services. With its global partnership with Starlink and continued rollout of new features, One NZ is poised to become a leader in the telecommunications industry. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how this technology continues to evolve and expand across the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What devices are supported for One NZ Satellite TXT service?
Currently, only four phone models are supported: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. Eligibility is expected to expand to more devices next year.
- How long will it take for text messages to send and receive?
During the initial rollout, most text messages can be sent and received within three minutes. However, this may increase to 10 minutes or longer during the first few months.
- Will voice calling and data services be available soon?
Yes, One NZ expects voice calling and data services to become available in the future as part of its continued rollout of new features.
- How will customers access satellite-to-cell coverage?
Customers can access the One NZ Satellite TXT service by selecting their phone model from the supported list. The service will be free for existing customers on paid-monthly plans, but pricing and accessibility details have not been disclosed for new customers or those on other contracts.
