Cell tower in space: Globe completes Starlink tech test

Telco titan Globe said it had successfully completed the pilot test of the Starlink Mobile, which serves as a "cell tower in space," in select Luzon remote areas.

Globe Telecom and Starlink logos

Satellite-to-mobile connectivity?

The company said its partnership with the US-based technology giant to provide satellite-to-mobile connectivity would help its goal to further expand services even in locations not reached by traditional cell towers.

The technology allows the delivery of app-based voice calls, simple data, and SMS directly from Low Earth Orbit satellites to standard LTE smartphones. Globe said no additional investment is needed, such as special hardware or a device, to deploy the technology.

The testing, conducted across Rizal, Batangas, and Bataan with no existing mobile coverage, proved the technology's technical performance, interoperability, and overall user experience.

The trial successfully enabled SMS, app-based voice calls, simple data access for messaging services such as Viber and WhatsApp, navigation through map apps, access to eGovernment services via the eGov PH app, sending money and payment transactions through GCash, and load and promo top-ups through the GlobeOne app.

Joel Agustin, senior vice president for Service Planning and Engineering at Globe, said this was "another breakthrough service from Globe in partnership with Starlink to serve Filipinos using satellite technology for connectivity."

This will be our lifeline especially during disasters and our complementary coverage in areas where terrestrial network is not available. The service will also address the connectivity requirements of GIDA communities and strengthen coverage across the country’s territorial boundaries, he added.

The Direct-to-Cell technology will formally roll out in early Q2 2026, likely in April.

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