PLDT’s mobile arm Smart Communications announced on Tuesday it has partnered with direct-to-device (D2D) LEO satellite operator Lynk Global to provide its services in the Philippines, starting with basic text messaging over LTE.
Lynk Global’s service enables mobile users to connect to its LEO satellite network using existing mobile handsets. The network currently only supports SMS messages and over-the-top (OTT) messaging apps like WhatsApp, although Lynk Global plans to support full mobile voice and data connectivity as its constellation is deployed over the next few years.
Smart said Lynk Global’s current capabilities are sufficient for connecting communities uncovered by mobile signals, and keeping people connected during typhoons, earthquakes and other emergencies.
Radames Zalameda, head of Smart’s network strategy and transformation office, said Smart and Lynk will run lab tests, set up roaming connections and conduct field trials ahead of a phased rollout of the service.
“We will begin by linking our core systems and move toward live field testing, using Smart’s spectrum to reach farther areas and prioritizing coastal and mountain barangays and key maritime routes while ensuring that connections are secure, reliable and stable,” he said in a statement.
Lynk Global announced last week that it will merge with rival D2D operator Omnispace. Global satellite powerhouse SES, which has invested in both companies, will be the majority stakeholder in the merged entity.
Lynk Global and Omnispace represent two approaches to the D2D paradigm – Lynk Global uses existing mobile spectrum used by terrestrial mobile operators, while Omnispace uses S-band spectrum reserved for mobile satellite services (MSS). The Lynk-Omnispace combo would result in a D2D service that supports both business models.
Lynk says it has partnered with over 50 MNOs and has commercial contracts to deliver services to over 50 countries, mostly in developing markets that see satellite services as key to extending connectivity to remote and unserved areas.
One of those is Smart’s rival Globe Telecom, which has been trialling Lynk’s D2D service since last year.
