Today’s telecom news includes announcements on T-Mobile, Satellite-to-Phone Market, 6G Innovation in India, among others.
T-Mobile Takes 911 to Space: Satellite Texting Now Works Even for AT&T & Verizon Users
T-Mobile has launched satellite-powered Text-to-911, extending emergency communication across 500,000+ square miles where cell towers don’t reach. The service works for any wireless user with a compatible smartphone — including AT&T and Verizon customers — making it one of the most inclusive emergency coverage solutions in the U.S. Using the Starlink satellite constellation, phones automatically switch to satellites when no terrestrial signal is available. Basic 911 texting is free for all compatible users, while full satellite messaging and data remain paid add-ons.
Satellite-to-Phone Market Skyrockets Toward $43.3B by 2034
The global direct satellite-to-phone cellular market is set to surge from US $2.5 billion in 2024 to US $43.3 billion by 2034, driven by a powerful 32.7 percent CAGR. Innovations in non-terrestrial networks and advanced satellite systems now enable smartphones to connect without towers, delivering seamless coverage even in remote or disaster-hit areas. Investment momentum is strong as major players and telecom operators form strategic partnerships and deploy new satellite constellations. Customer demand spans individuals, enterprises and public-safety agencies seeking reliable, always-on connectivity.
India Supercharges the Future: 100 New 5G Labs Launched to Drive 6G Innovation
India’s Department of Telecommunications has launched 100 new 5G labs across the country to supercharge domestic 6G research and strengthen telecom self-reliance. The labs support the Bharat 6G Alliance, which is targeting a 10 percent share of global 6G patents by 2030 and has already signed multiple international partnerships. More than 100 R&D projects are underway, focusing on open-RAN, indigenous chipsets, AI-driven intelligent networks and regulatory sandboxes that allow startups, industry and universities to test solutions in real environments.
Shafana Fazal