One NZ launches nationwide Satellite TXT with Starlink

One NZ has begun rolling out its new Satellite TXT service, providing coverage to areas previously lacking mobile service, powered by Starlink.

Through this initiative, One NZ is the first telecommunications company to launch a nationwide Satellite TXT service using Starlink technology, designed to improve connectivity across New Zealand.

The rollout of One NZ Satellite TXT means eligible customers with select phones and plans will gain access to this service at no additional cost, with a promise of expanded device compatibility in the near future. Initially, messages will experience delays in transmission as the service, which is viewed as an enhancement rather than a replacement for emergency communication tools, continues to mature.

Experience & Commercial Director at One NZ, Joe Goddard, expressed his pride in the company's achievement. "We have lift-off! I'm incredibly proud that One NZ is the first telecommunications company globally to launch a nationwide Starlink Direct to Mobile service, and One NZ customers are among the first in the world to begin using this groundbreaking technology," Goddard stated.

The service will initially cover approximately 40% of the country's landmass and extend coverage around 20 kilometers out to sea. Goddard added, "We've worked with Starlink to provide coverage across Aotearoa, including the around 40% of NZ's landmass that is not covered by traditional mobile networks—plus approximately 20 kilometres out to sea."

Goddard further noted the significance of the launch, mentioning that, "Right from the start we've said we would keep customers updated with our progress to launch in 2024 and as the technology develops. Today is a significant milestone in that journey."

The first set of eligible devices includes Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold6, Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and OPPO Find X8 Pro. These phones and current consumer Pay Monthly and Endless Business mobile plans will include One NZ Satellite TXT.

Addressing the service capabilities, Goddard mentioned, "We continue to test the capabilities of One NZ Satellite TXT, and this is an initial service that will get better. For example, text messages will take longer to send but will get quicker over time."

One NZ's testing indicates initial delays, with messages taking three to ten minutes to deliver, but they anticipate this time reducing to about a minute as more satellites launch. "This is a generational change in mobile technology, just like 4G or 5G," Joe Goddard remarked, highlighting its potential.

In a notable test, George Hillary, the grandson of Sir Edmund Hillary, successfully sent a message from Mount Head using One NZ Satellite TXT. He stated, "The potential of this technology is mind-blowing. I'm used to being pretty limited from a communications perspective when hiking or on an adventure."

Goddard emphasised the non-replacement role of the service, saying, "It's important to note that the One NZ Satellite TXT service is not a replacement for existing emergency tools, and instead adds another communication option."

Aligned with the service launch, One NZ will contribute to the Himalayan Trust, supporting the Everest region of Nepal. Goddard outlines the practicality of the service for New Zealanders, particularly those who travel beyond traditional mobile coverage zones.

The collaboration with Starlink Direct to Mobile by SpaceX underscores One NZ's efforts to address coverage gaps without taxpayer cost, positioning it among a select few globally to offer such a service. "For New Zealanders who like getting out into our great outdoors...the reality is that many parts of the country lack traditional mobile coverage," Goddard highlighted.

Device eligibility will grow as testing expands, with aspirations to extend access to hundreds of thousands of customers by 2025.