Globe, phone makers team up to make devices satellite-ready

MANILA, Philippines —  Telco-to-tech giant Globe Telecom Inc. is expanding the reach of its satellite-to-device service by working with the world’s largest phone makers to equip handsets with upgraded capabilities.

Globe is teaming up with handset makers Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, Huawei, Tecno, Realme, Infinix and Honor to support device-level readiness for satellite internet.

The telco is reaching out to these phone brands as their devices operate within the Android ecosystem, which make up the majority of handset connections to Globe.

Likewise, Globe is collaborating with tech platforms to expand digital access for its subscribers. The telco said popular apps such as Google Maps, Messenger and WhatsApp are already optimized for space-based connectivity, allowing users to open them with satellite-to-device subscriptions.

Globe also enabled its own platforms like GlobeOne and Globe Benta on satellite-linked access. These efforts are aimed at raising the compatibility and reliability of the telco’s newest service.

Recently, Globe partnered with Elon Musk’s Starlink to become Southeast Asia’s first telco to offer satellite-to-device capability.

The service, launched in June, provides mobile connectivity to Globe subscribers wherever they go by linking them to a Starlink low earth orbit satellite flying in space.  Globe’s satellite-to-device service can be purchased for as low as P99 for 30 days and just P299 for 90 days with 10 GB of data and 500 satellite texts.

Globe chief commercial officer Darius Delgado said the innovation allows the provider to reach communities where it is challenging to set up cellular sites. Globe wants to maximize the service in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).

“We are happy to be among the first in Asia to offer satellite-to-mobile connectivity because this suits our geography well. This service brings digital inclusion to many Filipinos and households in GIDAs and islands as well,” Delgado said.

In July, Globe fired up mobile internet in 52 GIDAs as part of its commitment to the Department of Information and Communications Technology to connect 180 locations.

Globe turned to satellite-to-device connectivity to reach the remaining four percent of Filipinos it has yet to serve because of network difficulties.