Starlink Mobile Teases ‘5G Speeds From Space With 100X the Data Density’
Arthur T Knackerbracket writes:
We don't have a date for the upgraded service rollout, but it isn't likely until 2027:
Putting some numbers to the claims, we see that the V2 upgrade is touted to deliver 5G from space,' which is also compatible with 100s of existing LTE phones. Don't get the 100x and 20x claims seen across Starlink social media and web pages mixed up. The V2 satellites upgrade is said to provide 100x the data density" compared to the current V1 satellites, with around 20x the throughput capability" per satellite.
Starlink also expects terrestrial operator partners, like T-Mobile in the U.S., to provide services which seamlessly transition between satellite and terrestrial networks without interruption or degradation in service." Previous Starlink announcements point to a goal of peak speeds of 150 Mbps per user becoming realistic with the rollout of the V2 satellites.
SpaceX is currently planning up to 15,000 new satellites to power its 5G from space' goal. Starship's progress at putting the larger, more capable V2 satellites into space will impact the availability window of the enhanced service, but some V2 Mini satellites are already being launched to help bridge the gap.
Thus, early 2027 looks most likely to be when the initial V2 service will be tested in the early rollout stage.
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