What question did this study set out to answer?

The study investigates the performance and challenges of direct-to-cell satellites, specifically focusing on Starlink's operation in real-world scenarios.

March 28, 2026Proceedings of the ACM on Measurement and Analysis of Computing Systems

A Variegated Look at Direct-to-Cell Satellites in the Wild

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Authors

WLWei LiuQingdao University JLJingyi LanTsinghua University YLYong LiBGI Group (China)

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Implication

In-depth analysis of direct-to-cell satellites shows limitations in connectivity for smartphones, suggesting the need for protocol improvements.

Key Points

The study investigates the performance and challenges of direct-to-cell satellites, specifically focusing on Starlink's operation in real-world scenarios.
Conducted a two-month full-stack dataset collection of Starlink's direct-to-cell satellite measurements.
Analyzed latency, mobility, and protocol requirements affecting connectivity.
Employed data-driven emulation with 3GPP non-terrestrial network protocols and satellite channel simulators.
Starlink exhibits high latency and mobility issues despite using mitigation strategies like function splits and rapid cell switching.
Backward compatibility challenges lead to access failures and frequent handovers.
Existing terrestrial protocols hinder effective satellite communication, suggesting a need for tailored protocol adaptations in future systems.

Cite This Study

Liu et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69c771f08bbfbc51511e21cd https://doi.org/10.1145/3788086

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Implication

In-depth analysis of direct-to-cell satellites shows limitations in connectivity for smartphones, suggesting the need for protocol improvements.

A Variegated Look at Direct-to-Cell Satellites in the Wild

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

A Variegated Look at Direct-to-Cell Satellites in the Wild

Discussion

Member takes

Implication

Key Points

Cite This Study

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