Telstra will test technology that allows customers to send text messages via satellite when they don't have mobile coverage later this year.
CEO Vicki Brady announced that the telco has entered into a partnership with Lynk Global as part of its half-year results last week, pitching it as a way to "extend mobile connectivity beyond [Telstra's] current footprint".
"We believe, for our customers, what’s happening in that space is important, and the ability to further expand our mobile coverage as this technology matures, we see as an area we should be in, we should be at the forefront of with partners bringing those options and choices," said Brady.
Lynk Global has a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites that it describes as "cell-towers-in-space". The satellites broadcast mobile spectrum, so customers of providers who've partnered with Lynk Global can connect to them without their existing phones without the need for any special equipment.
A clear view of the sky is necessary, however, and the satellites currently only have bandwidth for text messaging. Over-the-top messaging services like iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp won't work.
Lynk Global already has active deployments with bmobile in the Solomon Islands and Vodafone in the Cook Islands.
During a media briefing today, Telstra Executive for Technology Development & Innovation, Channa Seneviratne, said there's no specific time frame for the trial.
"[Satellite] will reach remote parts of Australia, but anyone who offers this technology will only be offering text messages," said Seneviratne. "There's lots of work to be done to get to the point where it can do anything more."
Given Telstra's agreement with Lynk Global is just a trial, there is no guarantee the telco will make it a permanent part of its mobile offering. It is, however, exploring other solutions for enhancing connectivity in remote areas, and today announced a high-speed 160km microwave link between Victoria and King Island that will enable new 5G deployments.
Telstra's trial with Lynk is similar to the initiative Optus is undertaking with Starlink. When Optus' network isn't available, customers will be able to connect to next-generation satellites for a basic level of mobile service. The service is set to launch this year, and will initially allow users to send and receive text messages. Optus says the ability to make calls and use mobile internet will follow in late 2025.
Alex Choros
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