One New Zealand to test Starlink mobile satellite service

One New Zealand has received approval to conduct initial tests of SpaceX's Starlink Satellite to Mobile service in Aotearoa.

The testing phase is intended to guide the development of a rollout plan and technology roadmap, aiming to enhance connectivity across New Zealand. The company is set to begin field testing of its satellite communication service, enabled through SpaceX's technology.

Jason Paris, Chief Executive Officer of One New Zealand, expressed enthusiasm about the commencement of testing across various regions. "We want New Zealanders to be safer with us, and we're now getting down to local testing of the Starlink direct-to-cell satellite network and its capabilities," Paris stated.

The collaboration between One New Zealand and SpaceX was initiated in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle, which highlighted the need for a resilient backup for mobile networks subjected to disruptions from climate-related events, as well as fibre and power outages. "We're unfortunately seeing this play out with Hurricane Milton in Florida right now, where Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability are playing a vital role keeping people connected as the extreme weather has disrupted their ground based mobile networks," Paris noted.

New Zealand's significant geographical challenges, with 40% of its landmass lacking mobile coverage, are expected to be tackled through this partnership. "By partnering with SpaceX, we'll be one of the very first countries in the world to benefit from Satellite to Mobile technology which uses incredible innovation to overcome those geographic constraints to provide a second line of defence which will keep Kiwis safer and better connected," emphasised Paris.

One New Zealand's testing will involve assessing the service on various mobile devices in different parts of Aotearoa to finalise user experience and launch strategies. Paris explained, "These satellites are around 360 km in the sky, travelling at 27000 km per hour, connecting to One New Zealand handsets on the ground. The engineering is incredibly complex, but the customer experience needs to be simple."

The company aims for a customer experience where message transmission via satellite occurs within minutes. "We're planning to launch the service when our customers can send and receive an SMS by satellite to mobile in a matter of minutes. With rocket launches on a nearly weekly basis putting new Starlink satellites in the sky, we are confident that won't take long," he assured.

Paris outlined plans for a phased rollout of the new service and mentioned ongoing discussions with phone manufacturers to extend the service's availability. "Like all new technologies we have introduced, there will be a phased rollout plan, and we are working with phone manufacturers to bring the service to as many customers as possible," he said.

Reflecting on New Zealand's backdrop, Paris stated, "New Zealand is a country of farmers, explorers, trampers and boaties, which is why we think the service will make such a difference for New Zealanders. We're really excited to get it into customers hands as soon as we can after testing."

The CEO also highlighted the potential boost in productivity stemming from expanded coverage. "While safety is our first priority, we also believe the additional coverage the service will provide will be a boon for NZ productivity, with companies across the country using it to stay in touch with their teams, whether they manage a fleet, or are simply a small business that travels, the added assurance this satellite network will bring is invaluable," he concluded.