Salt successfully test satellite-based text messaging with Starlink Direct to Cell satellites. The test was conducted using Starlink low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites in collaboration with SpaceX. The test confirmed that standard 4G smartphones can exchange messages via satellite, paving the way for broader mobile coverage in remote areas and greater national resilience in times of emergencies.

Starlink Direct to Cell enables mobile phones to connect to satellites when terrestrial mobile networks are unavailable – such as in alpine terrain, or during natural disasters. It complements existing terrestrial mobile infrastructure, adding a vital layer of redundancy and resilience. In this initial non-commercial trial, based on a test licence from the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM), Salt successfully delivered an SMS to a standard 4G smartphone via satellite. The message “Hello Salt, Space X here.” symbolically confirmed the functionality of satellite-to-mobile connectivity.

This breakthrough demonstrates the potential of Starlink Direct to Cell services to improve everyday  connectivity in rural and hard-to-reach areas, eliminating mobile dead zones, and also providing critical backup communication capacity in emergencies or infrastructure outages. Recent natural disasters and extreme events – including the significant landslide in Blatten, severe weather in Valais and Ticino, and hurricanes abroad, such as in Florida – all underscore the importance of resilient mobile communication when and where it is needed most.

Starlink’s satellites function as flying base stations, transmitting over terrestrial mobile spectrum directly to standard smartphones. No new apps or special hardware are required. Initial testing focused on SMS functionality, with voice and data expected in future development phases.

“This is a key milestone not only for Salt but for the Swiss and European telecom Industry,” said Max Nunziata, CEO of Salt. “It shows that truly ubiquitous mobile coverage is within reach – and that Switzerland can lead in deploying technologies that enhance both public safety and everyday connectivity.”

Salt’s successful test reinforces its leadership in bringing next-generation connectivity to Switzerland – responsibly, strategically, and with a focus on public benefit. Salt joins a growing community of innovation leaders advancing Starlink Direct to Cell services worldwide, including T-Mobile US, which has received approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and initiated commercialization in the United States, along with five publicly announced partners across the world who are now launching commercial services within the year.

Salt underscores that this was a non-commercial test. The timing of future deployment of satellite-based mobile services in Switzerland will depend on Swiss regulatory frameworks and related approvals. Salt is working closely with the relevant authorities on these steps.