// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM

Direct-to-Device

Direct-to-Device (D2D) refers to technology that allows satellites to communicate directly with standard mobile phones or other consumer devices without needing specialized ground equipment.

Direct-to-Device — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Direct-to-Device (D2D) is an emerging satellite communication capability enabling direct connectivity between orbiting satellites and unmodified terrestrial consumer devices, such as smartphones, for services like messaging, voice, or data, bypassing traditional ground infrastructure.

BACKGROUND

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • Satellite-to-Phone
  • D2D Satellite
  • Mobile Satellite Direct

USAGE NOTE

Direct-to-Device services promise to eliminate dead zones and provide ubiquitous connectivity for mobile users.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Direct-to-Device.

  • SpaceX (Starlink Direct to Cell)

    Developing and launching a satellite constellation to provide direct-to-cell service for standard smartphones, enabling voice, text, and data connectivity from space.

  • AST SpaceMobile

    Building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network designed to connect directly to standard, unmodified mobile phones.

  • Lynk Global

    Operating a 'cell-tower-in-space' constellation to provide direct-to-standard-device connectivity for text messaging, voice, and data across remote areas.

  • Omnispace

    Developing a global hybrid network that combines GEO and non-geostationary satellite constellations to deliver 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity directly to devices.

  • Qualcomm

    A leading developer of chipsets and modems that enable satellite direct-to-device communication, collaborating with satellite operators to integrate NTN capabilities into mobile devices.

  • Iridium Communications

    While known for specialized devices, Iridium is exploring and developing new direct-to-device solutions for IoT and potentially other applications, leveraging its LEO constellation.

  • Skylo Technologies

    Providing a direct-to-device satellite network for IoT, enabling devices to connect and transmit data via existing geostationary satellites without needing specialized satellite terminals.

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