Fastweb starts Italy direct-to-cell trial with Starlink

Fastweb partnered with SpaceX's Starlink to test satellite-based mobile connectivity in remote parts of Italy through a direct-to-cell trial, according to Telecompaper.

TL;DR

• Fastweb is testing direct-to-cell satellite mobile connectivity in Italy with Starlink.
• The trial targets remote areas with limited terrestrial mobile coverage.
• Telecompaper described the project as Italy's first direct-to-cell trial.

Fastweb, part of Fastweb+Vodafone, is working with SpaceX's Starlink on a pilot for direct-to-cell, a satellite service that connects standard mobile phones to satellites without a separate satellite terminal. The trial focuses on extending connectivity in remote areas of Italy.

Telecompaper reported that the pilot is the first direct-to-cell trial in Italy. The report identifies Starlink as the satellite partner and Fastweb as the Italian operator running the mobile connectivity test.

The source description states that the project is testing satellite-based mobile connectivity rather than a commercial launch. The available source text does not specify trial dates, spectrum bands, supported handset models, or coverage areas within Italy.

Related questions

• What is Fastweb testing with Starlink in Italy?
• What does direct-to-cell mean in this trial?
• Which country is hosting this Starlink direct-to-cell pilot?
• Is the Fastweb and Starlink project a trial or a commercial service?