TELECOM | Smart, Lynk expand satellite connectivity tests to Batangas
Smart and Lynk are also testing two-way communications, including the ability to send SMS messages when terrestrial cell towers are unavailable because of typhoons, power outages or other disruptions.
Smart Communications and satellite company Lynk Global have expanded Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite connectivity tests to Batangas to assess how satellite networks can support communications during disasters when terrestrial infrastructure is unavailable.
The tests simulated disaster scenarios in which telecommunications infrastructure could be disrupted following a calamity. Smart’s Network Strategy and Architecture Team and Lynk tested satellite-enabled cell broadcast capabilities for sending emergency alerts and public safety messages directly to mobile users in affected communities.
The Batangas tests build on earlier D2D trials conducted in Catanduanes and Ilocos Norte. The activities explored how satellite connectivity could complement existing telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in remote, underserved and hard-to-reach areas.
Smart and Lynk are also testing two-way communications, including the ability to send SMS messages when terrestrial cell towers are unavailable because of typhoons, power outages or other disruptions.
D2D technology connects standard mobile phones directly to satellites, potentially allowing users to maintain basic communications without relying on nearby terrestrial cell towers.
The technology could also extend connectivity to rural and underserved communities, as well as people working or traveling in maritime areas, including fishermen and those at sea.
“Reliable communication is essential in times of crisis. As disasters continue to pose challenges to communities across the country, PLDT and Smart remain committed to investing in technologies that help ensure critical information reaches people when they need it most,” said Menardo G. Jimenez Jr., PLDT chief operating officer and network head.
“For us, this goes beyond technology. Our mission at PLDT is to be there for all Filipinos, whether they are talking to family abroad, or requesting for assistance from a rooftop in the middle of a calamity,” he added.
The continued trials form part of PLDT Group’s efforts to explore next-generation technologies for public safety communications, business continuity and disaster response in the Philippines.
Full disclosure: All news articles published on the TechSabado website are written by human journalists, unless otherwise specified. Final text editing is also performed by human editors, with artificial intelligence (AI) used only to assist with additional grammar and style guide corrections..
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