Globe Telecom has partnered with international firm Lynk Global to test Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity for Short Messaging Service (SMS) and emergency alerts.
According to Globe, they made history by becoming the first company in the country to test the LEO satellite tech.
During the field trial, which happened in Bataan from February 16 to February 20, 2023, standard mobile phones successfully connected to Lynk's LEO satellites and sent and received text messages. The satellite was also capable of broadcasting an emergency message to Lynk-registered phones.
This innovative technology is anticipated to augment Globe's existing terrestrial networks and provide cellular connectivity to a greater number of Filipinos in geographically remote and disadvantaged areas.
Next month, Lynk will launch its global commercial service that provides roaming-like periodic SMS services and cellular broadcast emergency alerts. Over time, Lynk's service will become more integrated and incorporate additional services, including app-based messaging, voice, and data.
Last year, the two companies entered into an agreement for Globe to experience the innovative aspect of the service, namely the capacity for standard, unmodified phones to communicate with an LEO satellite in orbit that serves as a mobile base station.
Lynk has worked on the technology and satellite service for over five years and has launched a number of LEO satellites with direct-to-mobile phone service to provide mobile operators and their subscribers with expanded cellular connectivity coverage.
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Gerhard Tan, Director and Head of Network Strategy and Technology Enablement at Globe, said:
Globe is exploring new satellite technology solutions to reach more people, especially in far-flung areas that do not have any terrestrial network coverage. There are still places within the archipelago where people can benefit from additional mobile coverage.
Tan added:
Low Earth Orbit Satellites will dominate the space industry. It will create a strong wave of opportunity to connect the unconnected. This satellite technology will revolutionize basic cellular service and the internet in the country, enabling a digitally-connected Philippines.
James Alderdice, VP of Asia-Pacific at Lynk, shared:
At Lynk, we believe that people should be able to use their mobile phones to communicate no matter their location and no matter how remote. Our network of satellites that work as cell towers in space paves the way for Globe to enhance their mobile coverage of the Philippines.
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