Amazon is fully prepared to compete with Starlink in satellite service. The company will soon be testing a D2D service, which will allow mobile phones to connect directly to satellites.
Amazon is soon to launch its new D2D service. Amazon’s satellite-based service will be similar to Starlink’s direct-to-device service, where internet service can be accessed directly on the phone. Starlink had earlier teamed up with US telecom service provider T-Mobile to test direct-to-device (D2D) service. Amazon is also testing its own service.
According to the report, Amazon had hinted about launching its satellite-based direct-to-device service in April this year. The company is to acquire major satellite operator Globalstar for this.
What is D2D technology?
As the name is clear, no mobile tower is used in D2D i.e. direct-to-device technology. This technology provides connectivity to a mobile phone or device with another device via direct satellite. In this, the mobile receives the signal directly from the LEO i.e. Low Earth Orbit satellite in space.
The advantage of this technology is that you will get connectivity everywhere. Whether you are in the jungle or on the beach or in some desert, you will get a signal on your mobile. You will be able to contact someone from your phone. Starlink has partnered with US mobile operators T-Mobile and Verizon for D2D service.
What is the preparation of Amazon?
Amazon will connect its LEO satellites with Globalstar’s infrastructure, through which users will receive signals directly from the satellite. The benefit of this service is going to be available to people living far away. Especially in those areas where the mobile network is either not present or the signal of the network is very weak.
The biggest benefit of satellite based connectivity is during emergencies when people can be contacted for rescue. However, D2D service will be completely different from satellite internet. It does not require any router or umbrella to catch the signal coming from the satellite. It will get signal from satellite directly in mobile device.
