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The spectrum bands involved –  AWS-4 and H-block – are said to be ideal for direct-to-cell services.

The deal gives Echostar subscribers access to Starlink’s direct-to-cell service.

Starlink says the deal means that it can now go ahead with launching satellites that will expand its direct-to-cell service by more than 100-times.

Although Starlink has more than 8,000 satellites in orbit, only 600 are capable of providing direct-to-cell services.

The new capacity will “end mobile dead zones around the world”, says Space X president Gwynne Shotwell. “With exclusive spectrum, SpaceX will develop next-generation Starlink direct-to-cell satellites, which will have a step change in performance and enable us to enhance coverage for customers wherever they are in the world.”