Globe says Starlink pilot works in remote areas

Globe Telecom said it has successfully tested Starlink’s satellite-to-mobile service in the Philippines, allowing phones to connect in areas with no signal. The pilot was done in Rizal, Batangas, and Bataan, where users were able to send messages, make calls, and use data even without nearby cell towers.

The service works like a “cell tower in space” by connecting regular LTE smartphones directly to Starlink satellites. Globe said users do not need extra devices or apps to use the service.

During the test, users in remote areas were able to send money using GCash, access government services, and use apps like Viber and WhatsApp. The system can also provide signal up to 12 nautical miles from the coast, which may help people at sea.

Globe said this technology can be useful during disasters when cell towers are down. It may also help improve signal in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) where internet access is limited.

The company plans to continue testing, including checking how the system works under heavy use. Full rollout will depend on approval from regulators.

Globe partnered with Starlink, a satellite service by SpaceX, to improve connectivity across the country, especially in hard-to-reach areas.