Optus and Lynk complete successful LEO satellite-to-mobile test

For more than 30 years, Optus has been a leader and innovator in satellite-based communications services within the Australasian region. With our satellite credentials pre-dating even the creation of Optus, satellite is where we started, and we’re proud of the fact that we’re Australia’s largest and most experienced satellite owner and operator.

While we have a strong track record in delivering services to rural areas, Australia’s vast landmass and rugged terrain can make it difficult to provide mobile coverage everywhere it's needed – especially in remote or hard-to-reach reach locations.

No matter where they are located, Australians need connectivity. Therefore, we're excited to announce that we’ve successfully conducted a live demonstration of satellite direct-to-mobile technology.

This game-changing development opens the door to ubiquitous connectivity across the continent by complementing the existing Optus network for customers across Australia.

How we conducted the test

Satellite direct-to-mobile technology has been one of the most ambitious initiatives of the telecommunications industry. Put simply, it enables a standard mobile device located outside of the terrestrial network to access the satellite network, offering a much-needed solution for people not covered by the existing network.

Low orbiting earth (LEO) satellites are ideal for direct-to-mobile communications as they travel closer to the earth than their higher altitude equivalents, enabling connectivity to existing devices.

Optus, in partnership with LEO satellite provider Lynk, undertook a live demonstration of satellite direct-to-mobile technology in action. As part of the test, we travelled to a remote part of the South Australian outback, where we connected a standard mobile phone directly to Lynk’s satellite mobile base station in orbit, then sent and received a text message via the Optus network.

A historic milestone for Australian communications, the successful demonstration brings us closer to ensuring even the most remote Optus customers have mobile network access.

Bridging the digital divide

Despite its immense size, Australia is one of the most sparsely populated countries on earth and more than 60 per cent of our landmass has no mobile coverage at all. For farmers, Fly In Fly Out (FIFO) workers or people living in regional or remote communities, this is not only a major inconvenience, it can also present safety, practical and economic challenges.

This is where satellite direct-to-mobile technology will be the key to providing complete rural connectivity.

Even customers out at sea off the Australian coast will benefit.

This technology means more people can stay connected with loved ones, utilise telehealth services, run a business conveniently and access a reliable network during emergencies.

What’s next for satellite direct-to-mobile technology at Optus?

Following the proven capability of direct mobile satellite communication with an existing mobile phone as demonstrated by Optus and Lynk, we are one step closer to rolling out this technology for customers.

With the potential to bring full connectivity to the entire continent, this technology will create a significant productivity opportunity for the country, bringing improved productivity, prosperity, safety and connectivity to all parts of Australia.

By embracing satellite direct-to-mobile technology, we will further our commitment to becoming Australia’s most loved everyday brand with lasting customer relationships, by giving the power of connectivity to the millions of Australians who need it.