Photo source: One NZ, Youtube
One NZ has officially launched its Starlink Direct to Mobile service, a texting service powered by Starlink’s vast network of satellites. However, there are some initial limitations to be aware of.
Although the service will enable individuals in areas lacking 3G, 4G, or 5G coverage to send and receive text messages, the delivery times will be longer than what users typically expect.
On average, it will take about three minutes for messages to be sent, with some potentially taking up to ten minutes. However, as more satellites are deployed, this average delivery time is expected to decrease to approximately one minute.
Also, it currently does not support Apple’s iPhone or Samsung’s Galaxy S series.
Starting today, four smartphones will be capable of sending satellite texts: the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and the OPPO Find X8 Pro.
According to One NZ Experience & Commercial Director, Joe Goddard, the company is starting with a small selection of phones as part of the phased rollout of the technology.
New compatible devices for One NZ’s Starlink Direct to Mobile service will be updated regularly on the company’s website.
“For New Zealanders who like getting out into our great outdoors, or for people who need to travel along state highways and beyond for work, the reality is that many parts of the country lack traditional mobile coverage,” Goddard said.
“We are aiming to remove the dead zones and bring coverage to all parts of Aotearoa New Zealand, as long as you have a clear line of sight to the sky and an eligible phone and plan.”
One NZ Taken to Court
In November, the Commerce Commission filed criminal charges against One NZ concerning claims made in its advertising campaign that promoted “100% mobile coverage.” The Commission contends that these claims may have violated the Fair Trading Act.
ComCom deputy chairperson Anne Callinan said the claims made during the advertising campaign might “mislead consumers because they gave an overall impression that all currently available mobile services—text messaging, voice calling, and data—would be supported and available from 2024 and that consumers would have access to instant communication from all locations in New Zealand when, in fact, that may not be the case.”
At the outset, the coverage will be limited to text messaging (SMS and MMS), with the service anticipated to launch in 2024, possibly as late as December 31. To access this service, users will need a clear line of sight to the sky, which means it may not be accessible indoors, in vehicles, or beneath tree canopies.
One NZ’s recent press release regarding satellite texting indicates that the Starlink Direct to Mobile service provides coverage across Aotearoa, “including to the around 40% of NZ’s landmass that is not covered by traditional mobile networks.”
Its traditional mobile network covers about 60% of the country’s landmass.
Starlink Direct to Mobile Eligible Plans
Pay Monthly plans will now feature One NZ Satellite TXT at no additional charge, including Companion Group Plans. Additionally, existing Endless Business mobile plans will also incorporate these new services without any extra cost.