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Smart to offer satellite SMS via partnership with Lynk Global

Article (news)

ABS-CBN News

MANILA — Smart Communications said its subscribers in remote locations will soon be able to send and receive SMS messages even in areas without a cellular signal.The telco said it has partnered with ‘cell-tower-in-space’ satellite operator Lynk Global to make mobile communications possible even in areas without signal. &quot;The service will use satellites to directly connect to ordinary mobile phones (Direct to Device, or D2D) initially allowing people to send and receive SMS messages and use mobile applications (WhatsApp) even when cell services are unavailable,&quot; Smart said in a statement.  The telco said this can help keep communities connected and safe in current out-of-coverage locations, as well as during typhoons, earthquakes, and other emergencies.“We&#x27;re trying to be there for all Filipinos, whether they&#x27;re talking to family abroad, or standing on a rooftop during a flood, requesting for assistance,&quot; said Menardo Jimenez, PLDT Chief Operating Officer and Head of Network.Full mobile voice and data connectivity will be available in the next few years when the Lynk satellite D2D network is fully rolled out, Smart added. Smart and Lynk will run lab tests, set up roaming connections and conduct field trials before a phased rollout, said Radames Zalameda, Head of the Network Strategy and Transformation Office at Smart. The test will prioritize coastal and mountain barangays and key maritime routes.“Lynk’s technology is designed to extend mobile coverage everywhere, supporting Smart’s mission to keep communities connected, even when disasters strike,” said James Alderdice, Lynk Global Vice President for Asia Pacific.

The telco said it has partnered with ‘cell-tower-in-space’ satellite operator Lynk Global to make mobile communications possible even in areas without signal.

The telco said it has partnered with ‘cell-tower-in-space’ satellite operator Lynk Global to make mobile communications possible even in areas without signal.