A first in PH: Globe, Lynk hold successful satellite SMS trial in PH

Innovation brings connectivity to remote areas

Globe recently held a successful end-to-end satellite SMS customer trial in a remote area with no reception in Zambales, a milestone in the company’s initiative to deliver connectivity in Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs).

In the breakthrough test, Globe transmitted text messages using standard phones via Globe and TM SIMs through partner Lynk Global Inc.’s low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, marking a major breakthrough in providing reliable and inclusive connectivity.

The historic trial marks the first time regular mobile phones on prepaid and postpaid accounts have connected directly to a satellite to send SMS. This is particularly relevant in the Philippines, where many areas remain isolated due to the archipelago’s diverse geographical makeup.

Globe and Lynk make history with first-ever LEO satellite to mobile connectivity trial in PH

The Globe and Lynk teams witnessing the signal coming from Lynk satellite via spectrum analyzer

Leading digital solutions platform Globe has made history by becoming the first company in the country to test Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity for Short Messaging Service (SMS) and emergency alerts in partnership with global firm Lynk Global.

During the field trial, which took place in Bataan from February 16 to 20, 2023, standard mobile phones connected directly to Lynk’s LEO satellites and successfully sent and received text messages. The satellite was also able to broadcast an emergency message to the phones registered to the Lynk network.

This breakthrough technology is expected to augment Globe's existing terrestrial networks and provide cellular connectivity to more Filipinos in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.