MediaTek Collaborates with SpaceX to Enhance Starlink Mobile's Satellite-to-Phone Services

MediaTek has announced a collaboration with SpaceX to support wireless emergency alert messages through satellite communication on Starlink Mobile. This partnership aims to provide critical communications during natural disasters or other life-threatening situations, especially in areas lacking cellular coverage.

At the Mobile World Congress 2026, MediaTek demonstrated the Starlink Mobile service on a device powered by its M90 5G modem, the world's first 5G modem with integrated satellite technology. The service utilizes the S-band spectrum to ensure users can receive emergency alerts globally.

This collaboration has already enabled Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) services in the United States, Canada, and Japan, benefiting over 4.4 million people during emergencies. JC Hsu, Corporate Senior Vice President at MediaTek, stated that the solution "fundamentally solves the cellular coverage gaps that often occur during natural disasters and other emergencies."

SpaceX is also working with other chip manufacturers to integrate the necessary radio frequencies into smartphones, a process expected to take about two years.

In related developments, SpaceX has acquired spectrum licenses from EchoStar for approximately $17 billion to enhance its Starlink satellite network. This acquisition includes EchoStar’s AWS-4 and H-block spectrum licenses, with the cost split evenly between cash and SpaceX stock.

Additionally, SpaceX plans to launch next-generation satellites designed to harness the acquired spectrum, aiming to provide download speeds up to 150 Mbps, sufficient for high-quality video calls and potentially game streaming.

These initiatives underscore the growing collaboration between satellite and telecommunications industries to improve global connectivity, particularly in underserved regions.