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Starlink direct-to-cell service is expanding internationally, with launches and testing in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Japan, Switzerland, Chile, Peru, and Ukraine. A broader rollout, including in Africa through Airtel Africa, is planned for 2026. The service provides text messaging and will soon offer data and voice in areas without cellular coverage by connecting directly to standard smartphones.  

Expansion Overview 

Confirmed rollouts:  

• The service is available for text messaging with T-Mobile, Starlink (US), and ONENZ (New Zealand).  

• Rogers (Canada) and other partners are actively testing or launching the service.  

Upcoming in 2025: Testing and launches are planned with Optus (Australia), KDDI (Japan), Salt (Switzerland), and Intel (Chile and Peru).  

Future Expansion (2026): Airtel Africa will partner with SpaceX to introduce the service in 14 African markets.  

Service Overview 

The service uses Starlink satellites with Direct-to-Cell features to connect directly to unmodified smartphones.  

Initial focus: The first phase offers text messaging (SMS/MMS) and emergency alerts in areas without coverage.  

Future capabilities: Plans include support for data and voice services, as well as expanded capabilities alongside partners such as T-Mobile for use with services like WhatsApp and Google or Apple services.  

Eliminates dead zones: The service extends connectivity to remote and rural areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable.  

Partnership model: Starlink collaborates with existing mobile network operators, such as T-Mobile, who then provide the service to their customers.  

Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell Network aims to provide global network access by eliminating mobile dead zones through satellite-to-mobile technology. One year after launching the first direct-to-cell satellites, the messaging service is now available in the United States and New Zealand, with more countries coming soon. The Starlink team overcame many technical and compliance hurdles to connect satellites directly to 4G LTE phones. Now, T-Mobile and One NZ customers can use satellite messaging in areas that were previously out of reach. In 2025, SpaceX plans to expand this technology to more countries and add services for IoT devices, data, and voice.  

Starlink Direct-To-Cell service is now available in the United States and New Zealand, allowing people to send messages via satellite or on 4G LTE phones. Over the past year, SpaceX has expanded the network by launching more than 400 satellites. People sent millions of messages through Starlink Direct-To-Cell using beta testing and emergencies, helping keep the public connected. This new commercial messaging service is our first step toward ending mobile dead zones and bringing reliable worldwide connectivity with satellite-to-phone technology.  

After launching the first Starlink Direct-to-Cell satellites in January 2024, SpaceX has achieved multiple technical and regulatory milestones to launch the service.  

Unlike traditional networks that use ground-based cell towers, Starlink Direct-to-Cell relies on satellites designed to act as cell towers in space, bringing coverage to areas that are usually out of reach. These satellites orbit a few hundred kilometers above Earth and travel at very high speeds relative to people on the ground, presenting challenges such as Doppler-shift latency and the limited antenna strength and power of regular devices.  

To solve these problems, the Starlink team quickly developed new phased-array antennas, custom silicon, and advanced software to improve signal quality and coverage.  

Thanks to these advances and our experience in launching rockets and satellites, SpaceX was able to expand Starlink Direct-to-Cell and start service less than a year after the first satellites went into orbit.  

We have worked closely with mobile network operators worldwide to quickly integrate our networks and carry out thorough testing before launching commercial service.  
 
Some key achievements include:  

• Sending the first SMS just nine days after our first satellite launch  

• Successfully testing data on C-81 IoT devices.  

Our partners operate terrestrial telecom networks and supply LTE spectrum in the 1.6-2.7 GHz range, which we use for our satellite signals. This setup lets Starlink work as a standard roaming partner with these operators, so we can deliver services directly to wireless subscribers together.  

After Hurricanes Helena and Milton and the Los Angeles wildfires, SpaceX received special FCC permission to partner with T-Mobile and deliver Starlink Direct-to-Cell service in affected areas. This enabled T-Mobile users there to send text messages via Starlink’s satellite when regular cell coverage was unavailable. It also ensured that wireless emergency alerts could reach all wireless subscribers within the satellite coverage area, eliminating the need for global connectivity.  

In November 2024, after extensive testing, SpaceX was granted FCC approval to sell a commercial service in the United States, a key regulatory milestone for satellite-to-mobile connectivity. Starlink Direct-to-Sell is now available to users in the U.S. with T-Mobile and in New Zealand to users with ONENZ. SpaceX also continues to test with operator partners in Australia, Canada, Chile, and Japan, and will begin testing in additional regions soon.  

In 2025, we are preparing for commercial launches with mobile network operators in countries around the world, including Australia, Ukraine, Canada, Switzerland, Chile, Peru, and Japan. As we look ahead, we are focused on increasing our satellite-to-mobile coverage through an expanded global rollout, providing additional support for IoT services, devices, data, and voice. 

In 2026, SpaceX will reconfigure its Starlink satellites, lowering the altitude of approximately 4,400 satellites from 550 km to 480 km. This change is intended to enhance space protection by reducing collision risk using less crowded orbital space and ensuring failed satellites deorbit more quickly due to increased atmospheric drag. The choice comes after growing orbital congestion and a recent satellite anomaly. By concentrating the fleet in a lower, less congested band. SpaceX’s Starlink object orbit aims to prevent debris build-up and improve long-term orbital sustainability.  

Key Reasons for the Orbital Shift 

Less crowded orbits: The region below 500 km has fewer satellites and less debris, reducing the risk of collisions.  

Faster deorbiting occurs because increased atmospheric drag at lower altitudes causes non-operational satellites to de-orbit and burn up more quickly, reducing the amount of extended space debris.  

Mitigating risk: The shift addresses concerns about Kessler syndrome and reduces the risk posed by uncoordinated maneuvers by others, says SpaceX VP Mike Nichols.  

Response to anomaly: A recent minor debris event highlighted a need for better self-clearing, as reported by Reuters.  

How it works: 

SpaceX will gradually move thousands of its satellites from an altitude of roughly 550 km (the height above the Earth’s surface) to a band at 480 km. This process is called orbital migration.  

The migration takes advantage of increased atmospheric drag at lower altitudes.  

The process is being coordinated with regulators, government agencies overseeing satellite activity, and other space operators to ensure compliance with rules and safety for all satellites in orbit.  

Impact 

This large-scale re-configuration is intended to create a more secure and environmentally friendly Low Earth Orbit environment, demonstrating SpaceX’s pledge to responsible satellite deployment.  

The company announced that lowering the satellites’ orbits will reduce the risk of collisions.  

Starlink will gradually lower thousands of its satellites in 2026 to address space safety concerns, the company said.  

SpaceX’s vice-president of engineering, Mike Nichols, said that about 4,400 satellites now orbit at 550 km and will be moved to 480 km over the year.  

Nichols said lowering satellites will cause them to fall to Earth 80% faster. He also said fewer satellites operate at altitudes below 500 km, lowering the risk of collisions.  

Additionally, Nichols also said that lowering the satellites will improve ISS safety by reducing the risk posed by unexpected movements and launches by other companies.  

This action follows a December incident in which SpaceX reported that one of its satellites generated a small amount of debris following an in-orbit event. The debris caused a temporary disruption in communication with a spacecraft operating at 418 km. SpaceX is investigating the underlying cause to determine whether a satellite malfunction, an external impact, or other factors were involved.  

Expert Reports 200% Increase in SpaceX Collision Incidents. 

The European Space Agency estimates that 40,000 objects are currently in Low Earth Orbit below 2,000 km. Highlighting the crowded environment, Starlink satellites must navigate to avoid collisions.  

Of these, only 11,000 are active payloads or satellites, and more than 9,300 are SpaceX satellites, according to December data from astronomer Jonathan McDowell. This underscores why Starlink’s planned altitude changes aim to address collision safety.  

The ESA also reports that more than 1.2 million objects larger than 1 cm are in space, which it says could cause catastrophic damage.  

Satellites use data from trackers like the US Space Command to change course if they come too close to other objects.  

Hugh Lewis, an aeronautics professor, found SpaceX changed course 144,404 times between December 2004 and May 2005, a 200% increase from the previous six months.  

Lewis attributed the rise in collisions to the expanding Starlink fleet and the growing number of objects in orbit.  

Starlink will lower all satellites currently orbiting at approximately 550 km to 480 km throughout 2026, according to SpaceX’s vice president of Starlink engineering.  

The company aims to enhance space safety by lowering the orbits of its satellites.  

The decision follows a December incident in which Starlink reported an anomaly on one of its satellites, resulting in a small amount of debris and a loss of communication with the spacecraft at an altitude of 418 kilometers. Such kinetic incidents are rare for the company.  

Starlink explained that the affected satellite, one of nearly 10,000 in its broadband network, rapidly lost 4 km in altitude, suggesting a possible onboard explosion.  

Lowering the satellite, an operational change linked to approval, condenses Starlink orbits and increases safety in several ways, Nichols said on X. He added that there are fewer debris objects and planned constellations below 500 km, which reduces collision risk.  

Earth’s orbit now contains many more spacecraft as organizations rapidly deploy satellites for installed Internet constellations and space-based services, such as communications and Earth imagery.

The Federal Communications Commission determined that expanding the Starlink network with 7,500 additional second-generation (Gen-2) satellites presents an acceptable orbital risk of collision in orbit (known as orbital risk).  

With this decision, SpaceX can expand its constellation to 15,000 satellites, which will, in turn, improve worldwide internet and mobile connectivity.  

To support this authorization, the FCC provided its rationale and set forth several conditions. 

CCC announced its decision in January 2026. It prioritized public interest and Starlink space safety and included several conditions:  

Lower orbits: The FCC noted that operating the new satellites at lower altitudes, about 480 km above the Earth’s surface, compared to 550 km for existing satellites, will reduce the time non-functional satellites remain in space, helping prevent a long-term build-up of space debris.  

Performance data: The agency cited SpaceX’s low failure rate for non-orbiting satellites and found its protection procedures sufficient to address concerns from competitors such as Viasat and Amazon, as well as some astronomers.  

The FCC approved the project conditionally, subject to SpaceX meeting specific deployment milestones.  

50% of the newly authorized Gen 2 satellites must be launched and operational by December 1, 2028.  

The remaining satellites must be deployed by December 1, 2031.  

Ongoing oversight: The FCC order requires ongoing reporting on collision provision, prevention, and satellite disposal. It reserves the right to halt further deployments if debris risk thresholds are exceeded.  

Service Expansion 

The expansion will enable Starlink to offer several new services:  

Direct-to-cell connectivity: The satellites will support mobile satellite service (MSS), enabling direct connectivity with regular mobile phones. This feature will be available primarily outside the US and will offer extra coverage within the US through partnerships with mobile carriers such as T-Mobile.  

Increase capacity: by using five radio frequency bands (Ku, Ka, V, E, and W bands), which refer to specific ranges of the radio spectrum. The expanded network aims to increase capacity and offer faster internet speeds, potentially up to 1 Gbps.  

Global Reach: The expansion is projected to improve internet access in rural and remote areas worldwide. These are places where terrestrial networks are unavailable or uncompetitive.  

While this approval moves the expansion forward, the safety justification from regulators led to the postponement of a decision on SpaceX’s request for an additional 14,988 satellites. First, the FCC will conduct a performance review of the newly authorized constellation.  

In line with these plans, on January 9, the FCC approved an additional 7,500 Starlink Gen-2 satellites, further expanding SpaceX’s authorized next-generation constellation.  

This decision brings SpaceX’s total Gen2 satellite authorization to 15,000, following the initial 7,500 approved over three years ago.  

By authorizing 15,000 advanced satellites, the FCC has enabled SpaceX to deliver robust satellite broadband, strengthen computation, and expand access to all communities, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said.  

SpaceX has proposed 29,988 satellites, but FCC approvals are being issued in stages.  

The Commission stated it is authorizing parts of the proposed constellation incrementally, rather than all at once.  

The order authorizes satellites in orbits between 340 and 485 km with inclinations of from 28 to 96.9 degrees. It also covers previously approved satellites at 525 and 535 km. SpaceX plans to move those two orbits between 475 and 485 km.  

The newly authorized satellites have what the FCC calls advanced form factors compared to earlier Starlink models. No details were provided. SpaceX announced it will begin deploying larger V-3 satellites in 2026 using the Starship launch vehicle. Each will deliver 1 terabit per second of download capacity.  

The Space Bureau has evaluated the real-world performance of the Gen2 Starlink satellites launched to date, and we find that the authorization for additional satellites is in the public interest, even as the Gen2 Starlink upgrade satellites remain untested in orbit, the FCC concluded.  

This order grants SpaceX a temporary waiver from equivalent power flux density (EPFD) limits for the Gen-2 system (EPFD), which refers to the strength of radio signals a satellite system transmits towards the ground to prevent interference with other satellites. These limits are designed to prevent interference with geostationary satellites (GSO), which remain fixed over a single point on the Earth’s surface. However, SpaceX and other satellite operators in low Earth orbit (LEO) consider the rules outdated.  

The FCC is currently reviewing Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits. EPFD is a technical measure used to limit interference between satellite networks by limiting the strength of radio signals radiated toward the ground.  

We believe that while this rule-making is ongoing, it is in the public interest to grant SpaceX’s request for a waiver to allow it to exceed the EPFD limits, given the benefits to SpaceX’s service and thus American consumers, and the continued protection of geostationary satellite orbit (GSO) operators. The order states. (GSO refers to satellites stationed in Earth’s equatorial plane that maintain a fixed position relative to the ground.)  

The Commission stated that Gen-2 satellite performance has addressed concerns about collision risks and failure rates. It rejected comments suggesting that the full constellation could result in thousands of unmaneuverable satellites.  

In support of this, the order noted that SpaceX reported only two disposal failures—satellites that could not be de-orbited at the end of their missions—during the first year of Gen 2 operations. For comparison, there were 6 such failures in the first year of first-generation Starlink operations. The FCC stated that this comparison illustrates that commenters’ concerns that hundreds of thousands of failed non-maneuverable Gen 2 Starlink satellites are unlikely to come to pass.  

The FCC also denied a motion by the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America to pause its review of the application. The organization argued that there was a conflict of interest arising from Elon Musk’s roles as CEO of SpaceX and as the de facto head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), established by the Trump administration in early 2025.  

The commission concluded that the group had not demonstrated a likelihood of success on the merits and noted that Musk left Doge in May 2025, rendering the conflict-of-interest argument moot.

The FCC has approved Starlink Gen2 speed, expected to boost satellite throughput by 20x, according to reports citing FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. This is projected to deliver faster internet with speeds up to 1 Gbps in some areas.  

Summary Of FCCU Authorization 

Expanded Constellation: The ruling authorizes SpaceX to deploy 7,500 additional Gen-2 satellites, bringing the worldwide total to 15,000.  

Gen-2 satellites have higher data capacities, offer internet connections with lower latency (delay in data transmission), and operate on more radio frequencies and orbital paths than Gen-1 satellites.  

Direct-to-cell service: The authorization enables new technical flexibility. These include direct-to-cell satellite services outside the United States and supplemental coverage within the US through a partnership with T-Mobile.  

SpaceX must meet set deployment milestones: 50% of new satellites must be operational by December 1, 2028. The rest must be operational by December 1, 2031.  

Space Safety: The FCC noted that SpaceX’s recent moves to lower the operational altitudes of its existing satellites demonstrate a commitment to space safety and debris mitigation.  

For more updates on Starlink’s availability and improvements, visit the official Starlink website.  

Starlink Has Received FCC Approval To Launch An Additional 7,500 Satellites Into Space, Which Will Enhance Coverage And Increase Speeds 

This approval will bring the total number of Gen 2 satellites in orbit to 15,000.  

SpaceX can launch another 7,500 Starlink satellites,  

The satellites must all be in the sky by December 2031.  

SpaceX currently has 7,500 Starlink Gen 2 satellites in orbit and has received FCC approval to launch 7,500 more, bringing the total to 15,000.  

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr announced the decision in a statement on social media, further explaining that it will enable faster, more advanced internet services in the United States.  

Gen 2 satellites accessed via a Starlink dish offer higher data transmission capacity and lower communication delay than first-generation models. These satellites can handle up to 20x more data and are designed to help connect devices to a network more quickly and easily.  

Furthermore, the FCC has also authorized SpaceX to operate Starlink satellites across a wider spectrum of frequencies and in more orbital arrangements, which should improve reliability and service speed.  

Concerns have been raised about orbital congestion, while SpaceX initially opposed the nearly 30,000 Gen 2 satellites in 2020. The FCC now considers it safe to increase the number from 7,500 to 15,000.  

SpaceX has recently lowered the altitude of 4,400 satellites to reduce the risk of collisions with other satellites and space debris, including the International Space Station.  

This development was likely considered by the FCC in its recent approval. The additional satellites will also support Starlink’s direct-to-cell connectivity efforts outside the United States. This is possible through a partnership with T-Mobile.  

According to the IFCC, half of the newly approved satellites must be launched and in position by December 1, 2028. The remaining satellites must be operational by December 2031, so improvements in service may take some time to become noticeable.  

The FCC has also approved SpaceX to operate most satellites approximately 200 kilometers (about 124 miles) closer to Earth, which should further lower the delay (latency). This approval allows deployment of up to 144 satellites in up to 72 orbital planes within the 340 km, 350 km, 355 km, and 365 km orbital zones, and up to 120 satellites in up to 56 planes within the 480 km and 485 km shells. Second-generation satellites may also continue operating at the higher range, up to 500 km.  

SpaceX has also received a limited-time waiver to operate the Starlink network at higher power levels, which is expected to improve speeds. The FCC has begun a process to potentially update its rules on the equivalent power flux density limit. In the interim, the Commission states, “We believe that while this rulemaking is ongoing, it is in the public interest to grant SpaceX’s request for waiver to allow it to exceed the EPFD. The power flux density limit is given the benefits to SpaceX’s service and thus American consumers and the continued protection of (GSO) operators.”  

Regarding spectrum, depending on the performance claims tied to approval, the regulator has approved many, but not all, of the radio bands SpaceX requested to enhance Starlink’s data download and upload capabilities.  

Satellite industry analyst Tim Farrar expects the FCC order to significantly increase Starlink’s network capacity, which has been strained in some U.S. regions due to user overload.  

Peak capacity in high-demand areas could be 5 times higher. Of course, you need to launch enough satellites to deliver that capacity. He told PCMag in an email: “It should allow for a considerable increase in the U.S. customer base, which is already likely closing in on 3 million subscribers, and it will make it far less likely that Starlink encounters any congestion on the network from high levels of aircraft used near hubs, which was an area where Viasat claimed to have an advantage.”  

Farr also noted that the order allows SpaceX’s cellular Starlink system to use a portion of the 2 GHz spectrum it is acquiring from EchoStar. However, the FCC has only approved this radio frequency use outside the US. The commission is still reviewing the spectrum transfer. SpaceX has also proposed a 15,000-satellite constellation to utilize it.  

This approval constitutes a major win for SpaceX, despite concerns from rival satellite companies about potential radio interference and restricted access to lower orbits. In response, the FCC imposed conditions requiring SpaceX to stop any harmful radio interference if it occurs. The commission also stated that SpaceX’s efforts to reduce light reflection from satellite links and to coordinate with astronomers continue to be sufficient to resolve concerns.

SpaceX has received Starlink frequency approval from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission to upgrade it with gigabit internet speeds. This approval allows the company to launch an additional 7,500 satellites, operate in lower orbits, and access more radio frequencies.  

The FCC’s decision is expected to improve both Starlink’s main internet service and its cellular system with T-Mobile in the U.S.  

SpaceX originally asked to launch over 22,000 satellites, but the FCC approved only part of the request. Still, the FCC expects the next-generation Starlink satellites to provide better coverage and symmetrical gigabit speeds.  

The FCC’s 34-page order doubles the satellite spectrum (authorized range of radio frequencies) available to Starlink’s second-generation satellites, from 7,500 to 15,000, following earlier clearance for the first-generation satellites. SpaceX is now permitted to operate up to 19,400 satellites in orbit.  

The order also lets SpaceX operate most satellites about 200 kilometers closer to Earth. This should help lower the frequency of delay in signal transmission. SpaceX can deploy up to 144 satellites in up to 72 planes (paths satellites follow in orbit) in each of the 340 km, 345 km, 350 km, 355 km, and 365 km orbital configurations (circular layers around the Earth where satellites orbit). It can also deploy up to 120 satellites in up to 56 planes in the 480 km and 485 km shells. Second-generation satellites can continue operating at the higher altitude of 500 km.  

SpaceX also received a limited-time waiver to run the Starlink network at higher power levels. This should improve speeds. The FCC is considering changes to its rules on the equivalent power flux density limit. For now, the commission says, while this rulemaking is ongoing, it is in the public interest to grant SpaceX’s request for a waiver to exceed the EPFD [equivalent power flux density] limits. This is due to the benefits SpaceX’s service provides to American consumers and the continued production of GSO (Geostationary) operators.  

The waiver only applies to Starlink operations in the U.S. and comes with certain restrictions. SpaceX must ensure its activities do not interfere with other geostationary satellite constellations, which are groups of satellites that orbit the Earth at the same speed as the planet’s rotation. So, they appear to be fixed to one spot. The waiver also depends on the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) adopting new rules for the EPFD (Equivalent power flux density) limits, which regulate the amount of radio signal that satellites can transmit to Earth.  

The regulator has approved many, but not all, of the radio frequency brands’ specific frequency ranges for data transmission. SpaceX wanted to use it to improve Starlink’s data download and upload speeds.  

The approval is significant for Starlink’s capacity. Analyst Tim Farrar expects the FCC order will boost the overloaded U.S. system.  

The peak capacity in high-demand areas could be as much as five times higher, provided enough satellites are launched to support it. He told PCMag in an email that it should enable considerable growth in the U.S. customer base, which is likely closing in on 3 million subscribers. Additionally, it will make it far less likely that Starlink experiences network congestion from high aircraft traffic near hubs, an area where Viasat claimed an advantage.  

In addition to capacity improvements, Farrar noted that the order allows SpaceX’s cellular Starlink system to use a 2 GHz section of the spectrum from EchoStar. However, the FCC’s orders only approve this frequency outside the U.S. The Commission is still reviewing the spectrum transfer and SpaceX’s plans to use it for a 15,000-satellite constellation.  

The clearance is a big win for SpaceX, especially since rival satellite companies have worried that a larger constellation could cause radio interference and block their access to lower orbits. In response, the FCC said it set conditions for the approval, requiring SpaceX to stop any harmful radio interference if it happens. The commission also said SpaceX’s efforts to reduce Starlink satellites’ brightness and work with astronomers continue to be sufficient to resolve concerns.  

De-Orbiting Satellites vs. The Human Environment.  

The FCC does not believe there’s enough evidence that retired Starlink satellites burning in the atmosphere harm the ozone layer.  

Scientists asked the FCC to investigate. The Commission says the scientific evidence at that time, confirmed by a Government Accountability Office review, showed uncertainty about possible effects. They said further study would be helpful. Three years later, petitioners have not presented any new information.  

The record still does not demonstrate that re-entering satellites may impact the human environment, the FCC added. We note that SpaceX has committed to working with the scientific community to develop methods to study the effects of re-entering satellites on the atmosphere. And we find that at this time, no additional review under NEPA (National Environmental Policy Act), US legislation governing environmental review, is necessary.  

With these regulatory developments, SpaceX is expected to use Friday’s decision to expand its regulatory scope for the next-generation V3 Starlink satellites, which are larger and more capable. The company plans to launch them with the Starship vehicle, a new rocket still under test. SpaceX expects to launch the first V-3 Starlink satellites later this year. Right now, Starlink typically offers download speeds of about 200 Mbps, according to the company.

The FCC on Friday approved SpaceX’s request to deploy 7,500 additional second-generation Starlink satellites to expand global Internet service.  

The FCC permit approved SpaceX to operate 15,000 Starlink satellites, allowing upgrades, expanding use to five frequencies, waiving overlapping coverage and capacity limits.  

Building on these upgrades, the agency said the satellites will provide international direct-to-cell connectivity and supplemental U.S. coverage, enabling next-gen StarLink mobile services and internet speeds up to 1 gigabit per second.  

FCC Authorization is a major advancement for enabling Next Generation Services. FCC Chair Brendan Carr said, “By authorizing 15,000 new and advanced satellites, the FCC has given SpaceX the green light to deliver unprecedented satellite broadband capabilities. This will strengthen computation and help ensure that no community is left behind.”  

SpaceX requested approval for 30,000 satellites, but the FCC is authorizing only 15,000.  

We find that authorization for additional satellites is in the public interest. The Gen2 Starlink upgrade satellites remain untested in orbit. We defer authorization for the remaining 14,988 proposed Gen2 Starlink satellites, including those proposed for operations above 600 km, the FCC said.  

The FCC requires a SpaceX launch and operation of 50% of the authorized Gen2 satellites in their assigned orbits by Dec. 1, 2028, with full deployment required by December 2031.  

For first-generation satellites, deployment of the 7,500 approved units must be completed by late November 2027.  

In a related move, last week, Starlink announced plans to reconfigure its constellation by lowering the altitude of its satellites from approximately 550 km to 480 km in 2026 to enhance space safety.  

In December 2023, Starlink reported that one of its satellites experienced an anomaly at 480 km altitude, resulting in a small amount of debris and loss of communication, a rare kinetic incident for the company. SpaceX has become the world’s largest satellite operator through Starlink, a network of about 9,400 satellites that currently delivers broadband internet to consumers, governments, and enterprise customers.  

Looking at the broader industry context in 2024, SEC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel called for increasing competition to SpaceX’s Starlink, noting that Starlink then controlled nearly two-thirds of all active satellites.  

The order released this week addresses SpaceX’s request to deploy a larger Gen 2 constellation of up to 30,000 satellites. Instead of approving the entire proposal, the FCC authorized roughly half of the requested satellites and deferred action on the rest. The bureau described the decision as a balancing act between expansion milestones and deadlines, and concerns about orbital congestion and spectrum coordination.  

In addition to increasing satellite count, the FCC approved significant changes to Starlink’s orbital design. The order authorizes new orbital shells at lower altitudes, including about 340 km and 365 km, as well as additional shells between 475 km and 485 km. Lower altitudes decrease latency and decrease the time. Non-functional satellites remain in orbit but require more frequent launches to maintain coverage.  

Approval also covers spectrum access authorizing Gen 2 operations in the C and X bands and permitting the use of higher-frequency V, E, and W bands, mainly for gateway and backhaul links. The order notes that these authorizations are subject to coordination with other satellite systems and terrestrial services in the same bands.  

In the U.S., the FCC approved supplemental coverage from space operations in the 1910-1915 MHz uplink and 1990-1995 MHz downlink bands. For more deployments outside the U.S., the order authorizes direct-to-self mobile satellite service across a wider spectrum of cellular-adjacent frequencies, subject to national regulatory approval in each market.  

To support the expansion, the FCC requires SpaceX to launch and operate 50% of the authorized Gen 2 satellites by December 1, 2028. The remainder must be deployed by December 1, 2031. The order also imposes ongoing reporting on collision prevention and satellite disposal. The Bureau may pause further deployments if debris risk thresholds are exceeded.  

Deployment of numerous new satellites is likely to raise worries among astronomers regarding light pollution and increased apprehension about space debris and orbital collisions. In response to these concerns, the company lowered the orbits of several satellites earlier this year to reduce collision risk. Nevertheless, the benefits of direct-to-cell connectivity outside the U.S. and Internet speeds of up to 1 Gbps ultimately prevailed.  

Increasing Worries 

Politicians have expressed concerns about space debris. In response, SpaceX has committed to de-orbiting offline satellites within three years. This effort also enhances US leadership within space technology and supports international collaboration.  

Starlink satellites increasingly interfere with astronomical studies due to their brightness, density, and radio signals. Starlink plans to deploy tens of thousands of low-Earth orbit satellites. These satellites reflect sunlight, producing bright streaks that contaminate images from optical telescopes, particularly during twilight observations.  

Broad area surveys by major observatories lose valuable data when satellites cross their fields of view. Starlink’s radio signals can also interfere with radio astronomy by masking faint cosmic sources. These joint impacts threaten long-term astronomical studies.

The Federal Communications Commission has approved SpaceX to launch 7,500 more Starlink Gen-2 satellites. This approval brings the total allowed Gen-2 satellites to 15,000.  

The approval also lets SpaceX use more frequencies and operate at higher power in certain communication bands between 10.7 and 30 GHz. Final use depends on an ongoing FCC review.  

The FCC decision is based on this waiver, subject to the completion of rules adopted in the pending rulemaking that the Agency wrote in its order. SpaceX must bring its activities into compliance with any new rules upon the effective date of those new rules to address claims that SpaceX’s operations more than the (power) limits could cause interference to (Geostationary Orbit Satellite) networks. We condition SpaceX’s operations to ensure GSO operators are protected.  

Geo-stationary satellite companies, such as SES, which share the affected spectrum, have opposed the decision due to concerns about potential interference from stronger Starlink Gen 2 signals.  

The extra frequencies the FCC approved are: 14.5 to 14.8 GHz, 17.3 to 17.8 GHz, and 15.51.4 GHz.  

• 252.4 GHz  

• 92.0 to 94.0 GHz  

• 94.1 to 95.0 GHz  

• 95.0 to 100.0 GHz  

• 102.0 to 109.5 GHz  

• 111.8 to 114.25 GHz  

For Earth-to-space communications (signals sent from ground stations to satellites) and 18.6 to 18.8 GHz for space-to-Earth (signals sent from satellites to ground stations).  

SpaceX will have to comply with existing lower-power limits in the 17.3-17.8 GHz band and coordinate with incumbents on these frequencies. SpaceX stated that access to additional spectrum and higher power will greatly improve its satellite internet service. The FCC agreed with this assessment.  

SpaceX seeks to operate in additional contiguous spectrum bands to achieve symmetrical download and upload speeds, enabling fiber-like service for American consumers and bandwidth-intensive applications for American businesses in rural areas. The agency wrote that SpaceX commits to operating on an unprotected, non-interference basis (accepting that others use the same spectrum and agreeing not to cause interference) and has designed its satellite system to permit sharing with present and future operators of these bands. The company controlled by Elon Musk reportedly plans to go public in 2026. As of Monday, it had over 5,000 Gen 2 satellites in orbit, which was noted by astronomer Jonathan McDowell.  

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said, “This approval is a major step for next-generation services. Allowing 15,000 new satellites helps SpaceX bring new broadband, boosts computation, and ensures no community is excluded.”  

Tentative bidding results show that SpaceX will serve more locations than any other ISP under the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity Access and Deployment Program, a federal initiative aimed at expanding high-speed Internet access nationwide. This follows new Trump administration rules that increased satellite providers’ access to funding.  

The agency said it worked with the Commerce Department and NTIA on the decision.  

The Order permits SpaceX satellites to operate in lower orbits down to 340 kilometers and to provide direct-to-cell service. SpaceX is also seeking approval for a separate 15,000 satellite constellation that would deliver enhanced direct-to-cell service using spectrum acquired from EchoStar.  

Astronomers worry that more satellites could harm research by causing radio and sunlight interference. The FCC says SpaceX will coordinate with NASA and the NS and take steps to direct reflections away from Earth.  

While we authorize SpaceX to launch additional satellites, we find that SpaceX’s commitments and actions to work with federal agencies and the astronomy community to coordinate and mitigate the effects of its Gen-2 Starlink constellation continue to be sufficient to address concerns raised in the prior record, the agency wrote.  

SpaceX requested approval to deploy nearly 30,000 satellites; however, the FCC has currently approved only 15,000.  

We believe launching more satellites benefits the public, even though Gen-2 upgrades remain untested. We are delaying approval for an additional 14,988 satellites, including those planned above 600 km. The FCC requires SpaceX to launch and operate half of the Gen-2 satellites by December 1, 2028, and finish the launch by December 2031. SpaceX must also deploy 7,500 first-generation satellites by late November 202.7.7.  

Last week, Starlink announced plans to reconfigure its satellite constellation by lowering all satellites currently orbiting at approximately 550 km to 480 km during 2026 to enhance space safety. In December, Starlink said one satellite had an anomaly at 418 km. This caused some debris and lost contact with it. Such events are rare for the company. SpaceX operates the world’s largest satellite network through Starlink. It has about 9,400 satellites providing broadband to consumers, governments, and businesses.  

In 2024, Jessica Rosenworcel, Carr’s predecessor, called for more computing power for Starlink. She noted that Starlink then controlled nearly two-thirds of all active satellites.

FBI warns organizations about a new spear-phishing threat from North Korea’s Kimsuky hackers, which uses malicious QR codes to bypass security controls and steal credentials. The alert says the group hides malicious links inside QR code-scannable images that link to web pages sent through carefully crafted spearphishing e-mails. This method is called “Quishing attacks,” referring to phishing attacks delivered via QR codes rather than traditional links.  

These QR codes, when scanned on phones, help attackers bypass company email defenses and secretly gain access to business networks.  

On Thursday, the FBI warned that North Korean hackers are using malicious QR codes in spear phishing campaigns targeting U.S. organizations.  

Kimsuky hackers have targeted think tanks, academic institutions, and government entities through spear-phishing campaigns that embed malicious QR codes, the FBI said in a fresh alert. This type of spear phishing attack is referred to as “quishing.”  

While luring victims to use their phones, attackers exploit weaker mobile protections to slip past standard company defenses.  

Kimsuky (also known as APT43, Black Banshee, Emerald Street, Springtail, TA427, and Valvet Chollima) is believed to be linked to North Korea’s Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB). This group has a long history of running spear-phishing campaigns to bypass email identity verification methods.  

In May 2024, a U.S. government bulletin reported that the group exploited weak DMARC settings to send emails that appeared to come from trusted domains.  

The FBI stated that Kimsuky used malicious QR codes in phishing attacks in May and June 2025.  

How Qushing Works 

Posing as a foreign advisor, the Kimsuky emailed a think tank leader seeking insights on recent Korean peninsula events and included a QR code to a questionnaire.  

They also impersonated an embassy employee in emails to a senior fellow at a think tank seeking opinions on North Korean human rights issues, including a QR code that claimed to link to a secure drive.   

Additionally, they impersonated a think tank employee and sent emails containing a QR code that directed them to attacker-controlled infrastructure for further actions, using the same strategy seen in other incidents.  

They also targeted a strategic advisory firm by sending emails that invited recipients to a fake conference. The emails urged them to scan a QR code, which led to a registration page designed to steal their Google account credentials through a fake login.  

When scanned, these codes direct victims to attacker-controlled sites. These sites collect device information and display fake login pages for services such as Microsoft 365, Okta, Google, or Virtual Private Networks.  

These attacks often involve attackers stealing and reusing Session Tokens—digital keys that keep users logged into services. This allows bypassing MFA (multi-factor authentication) and maintains access to cloud accounts without triggering the usual MFA failed alerts.  

MFA Bypass And Mobile Attack Surface Gaps 

Quishing sends users from secure, managed devices to personal mobile devices. This makes many standard email and network protections useless. Since credentials are collected outside normal security boundaries, organizations may not notice unauthorized access right away.  

QR-based phishing is now often paired with mobile malware. Examples include Android apps that appear safe but grant attackers remote access once installed.  

Mitigation Recommendations 

FBI mitigation advice suggests several steps to reduce this threat:  

Warn users not to scan unexpected QR codes in emails or texts.  

Train staff to spot social engineering and suspicious QR use.  

Always verify QR codes before logging in or downloading.  

Use mobile device management and security tools. These tools can check QR code links before users open them.  

Use phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever you can. A type of MFA designed to prevent attackers from stealing access even if they have some account credentials – To make token replay attacks less effective.  

Organizations should maintain strong incident-reporting channels with their local FBI CyberSquad (a specialized law enforcement team focused on cybercrime) and the IC3 portal (the Internet Crime Complaint Center) to speed up responses and share information.  

This news follows ENKI’s recent report, less than a month ago, about a QR code campaign by Kimsuky. The group used phishing emails impersonating a soil-based logistics company to spread a new Android malware called DocSwap, which can compromise sensitive data and device functionality on infected users’ phones.  

Quishing operations frequently finish with session token theft and replay, enabling attackers to bypass multi-factor authentication and hijack cloud identities without triggering the typical MFA fails alerts. The players said. Establish persistence within the organization and propagate secondary spear-phishing from the compromised mailbox.  

The compromised path originates from unmanaged mobile devices outside normal endpoint detection and response and network inspection boundaries. Qishing is now considered a high-confidence, MFA-resilient identity-intrusion vector in enterprise environments.  

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Acer has introduced its 40th Ryzen AI Max+ 395 system, positioning the Veriton RA100 mini-PC as an AI workstation built to meet the advanced processing needs of modern professionals. To succeed against stronger value offerings, clear differentiation and a competitive landscape will be essential.  

Acer has introduced an expanded Veriton desktop range for business users, including all-in-one systems, a large tower desktop, and an AI-enabled mini workstation. This lineup addresses the growing productivity and creativity needs of enterprises, small businesses, and professionals.  

The new Veriton range features AI acceleration, flexible deployment, and enterprise-grade connectivity, supporting users from office staff managing daily tasks to creative professionals handling advanced content creation and AI-assisted workloads.  

AI Mini Workstation Handles Advanced Workloads 

The Acer Veriton RA100 AI mini workstation leads the line-up as a co-pilot + PC. It features an AMD Ryzen AI Max +3950X processor and AMD Radeon 8060 graphics. It’s dedicated to AI processing, supports local AI models, generative AI workloads, 3D design, and content creation.  

The Ryzen AI Max+395 AI workstation is designed for creators and developers. The Veriton RA100 offers advanced specifications comparable to other Ryzen AI Max+ systems, supporting extensive AI-driven applications. However, pricing will determine the Mini AI PC’s success in this challenging market.  

The Acer Veriton RA100 AI Mini workstation’s market success will hinge on pricing, as its specifications closely match rival mini PCs with the same processor. It is aimed at creators and developers needing local AI capabilities.  

Key Specifications and Features 

During CES 2026, Acer announced the Veriton RA100, which meets the demands of modern AI workloads, 3D design, and high-resolution creation all within a sleek, compact build. Additionally, Acer also provided a specs breakdown mentioned below for the reference of creators and developers. They are:  

Processor: AI Max +395 processor.  

AI performance: 50NPU TOPS 60 TFLOPS (GPU) supporting up to 120B parameters for local AI models.  

Memory: up to 128 GB 4-channel LPDDR5X RAM  

Storage: Up to 4TB M.2 2280 PCLE SSD  

Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2.5G Ethernet, and dual USB 4.40 Gbps ports.  

Target users: Product designers, engineers, AI developers, animators, and content creators.  

Active Performance: Users can select silent, balanced, and performance models to control power, cooling, and noise.  

Pricing and Market Outlook 

Acer says the Veriton RA100 will reach North America and EMEA starting Q1 2026. Pricing is not released and will vary by region.  

Competing Mini PCs with the same AMD Ryzen AI + 395 processor from HP, B-Link, and Framework crowd the market, making price the critical background. Unless Acer delivers a compelling price point, the Veriton RA100 risks fading into the noise.  

For more information on product specifications and original availability, please visit the official Acer website.  

At CES 2026, Acer expanded its Veriton desktop range with new mini-PCs, towers, and all-in-one systems designed for business and advanced users.  

The line-up features the Veriton 2000 Large Tower and updated Veriton All-in-One series, both powered by Intel Core Ultra processors and intended for office environments and small to medium businesses.  

Compact Windows 11 Copilot + is designed for an AI workload focus. It features a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor, Radeon 8060S graphics, and 50 TOPS/NPU and up to 60 TFL/OPS of GPU performance.  

Powered by Ryzen AI Max + 395 processor 

The system supports up to 128 GB of 4-channel LPDDR5X memory and up to 4 TB of storage through an M.2 2280 SSD.  

The configuration is well-suited for on-device AI workloads and intensive content creation, distinguishing the Veriton RA100 as a mini-PC capable of local AI model deployment and creative applications without relying on the cloud.  

The system features a compact chassis measuring 203 mm x 192 mm x 70 mm, which keeps it classified as a mini-PC despite its workstation capabilities.  

Connectivity options include:  

• Wi-Fi 7  

• Bluetooth 5.4  

• 2.5G Ethernet  

• USB 4 and Gen 3 Type-C  

• USB 3.2, Gen 2 Type-A  

• USB 2  

• HDMI 2.1  

• DisplayPort  

• Audio Jacks  

• Front card reader  

Selectable power modes enable users to adjust performance, thermals, and noise levels for office tasks, multitasking, or intensive AI workloads.  

The RA100’s specifications are similar to those of other mini-PCs powered by the Ryzen AI Max + 395 processor currently available.  

These systems from brands such as HP, GMK, TEK, Corsair, B-Link, Boss Game, and Framework also use this processor, resulting in similar core hardware, savings in pricing, and system tuning as the main points of difference.  

The Veriton RA100 benefits Asus’s brand recognition, but unless it is competitively priced, it might struggle to stand out in a crowded mini-PC market.