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Telstra Introduces Satellite Messaging Service
iTnews
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Details
- Date Published
- 2 June 2025
- Priority Score
- 0
- Australian
- Yes
- Created
- 15 June 2025, 12:45 pm
Authors (1)
- Ry CrozierENRICHED
Description
For one series of devices, with more to come.
Summary
Telstra has initiated a new satellite-based messaging service, initially accessible for Samsung Galaxy S25 handsets with updated software. The service allows users to send text messages outside traditional mobile network coverage, utilizing Starlink’s satellite technology. While initially limited to specific devices, Telstra plans to expand availability across more handsets. This development highlights the ongoing integration of satellite communication to enhance connectivity in areas with limited network access, although it does not directly address AI safety or governance.
Body
Telstra has commercially launched Starlink-backed satellite-to-mobile messaging just weeks after live trials, albeit initially only for Samsung Galaxy S25 series devices “updated with the latest software”.
The service, which allows the transmission of text messages when outside the telco’s mobile network coverage area, is “available for consumer and small business customers on Telstra month-to-month mobile plans”, consumer executive Tom Beach said.
Telstra said that eligible customers would have ‘satellite messaging’ added to their core plan inclusions.
This “should be completed over the coming weeks,” Beach said.
The intent is to make the service accessible on more handsets, but no timeline was provided.
Beach said Telstra will “continue to test and refine the service so we can continue to offer the best product we can for customers.”