Insight: Starlink and the Outlook for LEO NTN

With over 60 smartphones supporting D2C, Starlink’s LEO network is reshaping mobile operators, IoT, and communications.

More than 60 smartphones now support proprietary or 4G-NTN using Starlink’s network of D2C (Direct-to-Cell)-capable satellites, Globalstar (Apple Messaging service), or other satellite constellations. Starlink has set the bar for success in satcomms with its low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, mainly with its Broadband to fixed and nomadic terrestrial antennas, but D2C using Starlink has boosted subscribers and revenue for T-Mobile, and D2C has the potential to revolutionize IoT in outdoor applications such as agriculture, container shipping, and environmental monitoring. This Insight explores Starlink’s success and its implications for communications and mobile network operators.