Telstra Launch Australia’s First D2D Text Messaging via Starlink

Australia has entered the era of direct-to-device satellite messaging. Telstra has become the first mobile operator in the country to offer satellite-to-mobile text messaging to consumer and small business customers, thanks to a partnership with the SpaceX Starlink Direct to Cell network.

Telstra customers on eligible plans with a Samsung Galaxy S25 series device can now send and receive SMS even when they’re outside mobile network coverage, as long as they’re outdoors with a clear view of the sky.

The new Telstra Satellite Messaging service is the result of extensive trials across remote regions of Australia. It’s a text-only service for now, with support for voice and data expected in the future. Messages may take longer to send depending on satellite availability and location, and Telstra make clear that the service does not currently support emergency texts.

SOURCE: https://www.telstra.com.au/exchange/telstra-launch-satellite-messaging