Starlink executives outlined plans for their next-generation V2 satellite constellation during a keynote at Mobile World Congress. The upgrade seeks to deliver speeds comparable to traditional 5G networks, reaching up to 150 Mbps under ideal conditions. This development includes enhanced coverage for polar regions and a partnership with Deutsche Telekom for European connectivity.
At Mobile World Congress, Michael Nicolls, SpaceX's senior vice president of Starlink engineering, presented the roadmap for Starlink's second-generation satellites, known as V2. He emphasized the ambition to create a seamless experience, stating, "The goal of Starlink Mobile ... is to provide a terrestrial-like connectivity when you're connected to the satellite system." Nicolls further noted, "In the right conditions, it should look and feel like you're connected to a high-performing 5G terrestrial network."
The V2 constellation promises download speeds of up to 150 Mbps in optimal scenarios, akin to broadband services. These satellites will feature 100 times the data density of earlier models, enabling quicker streaming, browsing, and more dependable voice calls. A key improvement is expanded coverage to Earth's polar regions, areas often underserved by conventional networks.
SpaceX intends to launch more than 50 V2 satellites per mission beginning in mid-2027, with the objective of deploying a complete 1,200-satellite network by the end of 2027—achievable in about six months. Beyond the technical upgrades, Starlink revealed a collaboration with Deutsche Telekom. This alliance will leverage the satellite system to fill internet coverage voids in Europe, with implementation slated for 2028.
These advancements position Starlink to rival ground-based infrastructure more closely, potentially broadening global access to high-speed internet.