MediaTek Collaborates with SpaceX to Integrate Starlink Support into M90 Modem

As satellite-based communication technology continues to evolve, its integration into smartphones represents a groundbreaking advancement. MediaTek is strategically positioning itself as a frontrunner in this arena by entering into a consequential partnership with SpaceX, which aims to introduce native Starlink compatibility for emergency messaging on its M90 modem.

MediaTek Teams Up with SpaceX for Starlink-Enabled Emergency Messaging

In a recent announcement, MediaTek revealed its collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink, aiming to enhance mobile communication by providing critical emergency alerts through satellite systems. This initiative allows smartphone users worldwide to receive notifications from various alert systems, including the Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS), the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) framework, and the Earthquake and Tsunami Warning System (ETWS).

Highlighting this initiative, MediaTek showcased the capabilities of Starlink’s mobile connectivity during the Mobile World Congress 2026. The demonstration featured a device equipped with the M90, recognized as “the world’s first 5G modem with integrated satellite technology.”

The partnership taps into Starlink’s innovative Direct to Cell technology, utilizing the S-Band spectrum, which typically operates between 2GHz and 4GHz, to transmit vital emergency messages. According to MediaTek, this collaboration significantly addresses the cellular coverage deficiencies that arise during natural disasters and emergencies, marking a crucial progress stage for the implementation of standardized Non-Terrestrial Networks (NR-NTN) technology.

In a related strategic move, MediaTek recently invested in Ayar Labs, a company specializing in silicon photonics. This investment underlines MediaTek’s commitment to staying at the forefront of technological innovation as silicon photonics transitions from a theoretical concept to a practical framework for next-generation chip manufacturing. The implications of this technology are vast, affecting not only AI data centers but also advancing mobile-centric application processors, which remain MediaTek’s core focus.

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