What's Happening?
Globe Telecom has announced a partnership with Starlink to resell its Direct to Cell (D2C) satellite service in the Philippines. This collaboration makes Globe the first operator in Southeast Asia to offer this service, which aims to address mobile coverage
gaps in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas. The D2C service, compatible with standard LTE handsets, will provide connectivity to underserved communities and the 4% of the Filipino population without terrestrial coverage. Globe's initiative will enable access to digital government services and offer a communication lifeline during natural disasters.
Why It's Important?
This partnership between Globe Telecom and Starlink represents a significant advancement in bridging the digital divide in the Philippines. By extending mobile reach through satellite technology, Globe is enhancing connectivity for remote and underserved areas, which is crucial for economic development and social inclusion. The initiative aligns with the broader goal of ensuring that connectivity is accessible to all, regardless of geographic location. This development could set a precedent for other countries in the region to adopt similar technologies, potentially transforming communication infrastructure in Southeast Asia.
What's Next?
Globe Telecom plans to make the Starlink D2C service commercially available within the first quarter of the year. The company is working on pricing strategies to ensure the service is affordable and inclusive. As the service rolls out, Globe will likely focus on expanding its reach and improving service quality. The success of this initiative could lead to further collaborations between telecom operators and satellite service providers, fostering innovation and competition in the telecommunications sector.
