Smart Communications Inc. will harness satellite technology to enable mobile communications even in areas without cell signal seen particularly useful during typhoons, earthquakes and other emergencies.
Smart recently announced a partnership with low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite operator Lynk Global to solve connectivity challenges in locations without working cell tower sites.
Lynk Global’s technology employs a ‘direct to device’ or D2D network, where a mobile phone directly connects with an overhead satellite that roams when it is out of range of a regular cell tower.
This technology allows text or SMS messaging, as well as exchange of messages through mobile apps like WhatsApp, enabling initial access to the LTE mobile data connection.
Further, Smart eyes the full rollout in the next few years, introducing mobile call features and full data connectivity.
How it works
These LEO satellites can cover larger areas, hitting altitudes of less than 1,000 kilometers but could hover for as low as 160 km above Earth, according to the European Space Agency.
This technology is seen to eliminate connectivity worries when disasters strike, given that cellular tower signals are typically prone to interruption caused by natural calamities.
‘We’re trying to be there for all Filipinos, whether they’re talking to family abroad, or standing on a rooftop during a flood, requesting for assistance,’ said PLDT chief operating officer and head of network, Menardo Jimenez.
Smart head of network strategy and transformation office Radames Zalameda said that they would conduct field trials and set up roaming connections prior to carrying the rollout of this technology.
‘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,’ Zalameda said.
Last year, Smart’s rival, Globe Telecommunications, conducted its first mobile voice call through LEO satellite.