Amazon’s satellite internet constellation, Project Kuiper, could soon be more than just a Starlink competitor. A recent filing with the UK’s telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, reveals that Amazon is exploring the possibility of using Kuiper to power a “direct-to-device” (D2D) cellular satellite service for mobile phones. This will allow cellphones to always have some kind of signal as long as they can see the sky. This was first spotted by a user on X.
This revelation comes as Ofcom is seeking input from private companies on the burgeoning D2D market, which aims to provide cellular coverage via satellites to remote areas and underserved communities. In its response, Amazon stated that it is “exploring options for D2D services and is seeking to develop the most versatile technical solutions for D2D offerings.”
While the filing doesn’t provide specific details about Amazon’s plans, it urges Ofcom to adopt flexible regulations that would allow D2D services to operate across all frequencies currently used by ground-based cellular networks. Amazon argues that this will ensure sufficient spectrum availability to meet the anticipated demand for D2D services.
This potential move by Amazon signals intensifying competition in the cellular satellite market. SpaceX’s Starlink is already planning to launch a beta version of its “direct-to-cell” service with T-Mobile this year, while AST SpaceMobile aims to begin its own beta test with AT&T and Verizon by December. EchoStar, the parent company of Hughesnet, is also investing heavily in cellular satellite technology.
Project Kuiper is still in its early stages, with plans to launch its first production satellites in Q4 of this year. The company aims to deploy over 3,000 satellites to provide high-speed broadband internet to underserved areas. Expanding into the cellular satellite market would be a natural progression for Project Kuiper, leveraging its satellite infrastructure to offer a wider range of communication services.
This development highlights the growing interest in satellite technology to bridge the connectivity gap and provide reliable communication services to people around the world. As the market for cellular satellite services heats up, consumers can expect to see more innovative offerings and increased competition in the years to come.