First SMS from Marianas sent to space

Docomo Pacific and Lynk Global complete satellite-direct-to-device test in preparation for service rollout

Gene Ramos, Docomo Pacific's mobile field operations technician; and Ralph Cabello, technical account manager for APAC, Lynk Global, conduct D2D test. Photo courtesy of Docomo Pacific.

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

The first recorded SMS was sent to space from the Marianas, a breakthrough, which Docomo Pacific said marked a significant advancement toward the goal of bringing satellite-direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity to underserved and remote areas in the region.

Docomo Pacific said the SMS test completed the latest phase in its partnership with Lynk Global LLC.

“With successful testing now complete on both Apple and Android-based handsets, the two companies will now move toward finalizing plans for the initial commercial launch,” Docomo said in a press release.

The Federal Communications Commission on May 2 cleared Lynk Global to provide D2D service to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands through a partnership with Docomo Pacific.

D2D is a new technology that enables standard mobile phones and other devices to directly connect to space satellites, thereby bypassing traditional land-based cell towers and facilitating connectivity in areas with poor reception.

"This milestone proves that reliable satellite-direct-to-device messaging is not only possible, but practical, for island communities like ours,” said Gene Crisostomo, Docomo Pacific’s senior vice president.

“Beyond extending everyday connectivity, Lynk will also be used to provide backup services to customers when natural disasters hit and knock out the ground network to enhance network resilience in this region of the world."

The test, conducted in coordination with Lynk’s engineering team, highlighted the potential of satellite-to-phone communication in regions that are often challenged by topography and infrastructure limitations.

"This successful test in the Marianas represents another major step in Lynk’s mission to connect everyone, everywhere. It validates the powerful combination of our technology and DOCOMO PACIFIC’s regional leadership,” said James Alderdice, Lynk Global’s vice president for Asia-Pacific.

“Together, we are demonstrating that even the most remote parts of the world can be part of the global communications network.”

Docomo Pacific and Lynk Global said they will continue to collaborate in the coming weeks to finalize operational frameworks and ensure their readiness for commercial deployment.