One NZ has become the world’s first telecommunications provider to offer a nationwide satellite text service, leveraging SpaceX’s Starlink Direct-to-Cell (DTC) network. This ground-breaking technology bridges connectivity gaps for areas previously unreachable by traditional mobile networks, marking a significant milestone for mobile communication.
The One NZ Satellite TXT service, which officially launched on December 18, 2024, enables text messaging in areas covering 40% of New Zealand’s landmass that lack mobile tower coverage. The service also extends connectivity up to 20 kilometers (12 miles) offshore.
Customers with compatible devices, including the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, Z Fold6, S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro, can access this service at no additional cost under eligible plans. Support for more devices, including Apple iPhones, is coming soon.
“This is a generational change in mobile technology, akin to the advent of 4G and 5G. For New Zealanders venturing into remote regions, this service provides an unprecedented level of safety and convenience,” said Joe Goddard, Experience and Commercial Director at One NZ.
According to One NZ, text messages sent via satellite may initially take three to ten minutes to deliver, but this latency is expected to decrease to approximately one minute as SpaceX deploys additional satellites with direct-to-cell capabilities.
To demonstrate its potential, Sir Edmund Hillary’s grandson, George Hillary, tested the One NZ Satellite TXT service from Mount Head, one of New Zealand’s remote peaks. At an altitude of 8,480 feet, he successfully sent a message to his brother, Alex Hillary, stating, “Knocked another milestone off! Made it up safe.”
Coverage like never before is here! One NZ is the first in the world to launch a nationwide Satellite TXT service powered by @Starlink helping New Zealanders to be better connected, safer, and more productive. Thanks @SpaceX pic.twitter.com/yw0J6rRhg4
— One New Zealand (@onenzofficial) December 18, 2024
While the service currently only supports text messaging, future updates will enable voice calling and data services. By 2025, One NZ anticipates expanding compatibility to hundreds of thousands of devices, bringing satellite connectivity to a broader audience.
One NZ in New Zealand beat T-Mobile in in the US in becoming the first telecommunications provider to launch Starlink’s satellite messaging. Rogers in Canada has signed an agreement with SpaceX, but the companies are still awaiting regulatory approval to begin testing in Canada.
