Starlink’s progress in under seven years is totally insane 2019 — The first dedicated Starlink launch carried 60 satellites 2020 — Wider public beta service began 2024 — The first Direct to Cell satellites launched, followed by the first commercial satellite-texting rollout 2025 — Direct to Cell expanded across more carriers, devices and markets 2026 — Starlink reached approximately 10.3 million subscribers across 164 countries, territories and other markets By March 31, 2026, SpaceX had approximately 9,600 Starlink broadband and mobile satellites in low-Earth orbit Direct to Cell was already providing satellite-to-mobile texting and voice services to approximately 7.4 million monthly unique devices across roughly 30 countries What began with a single launch of 60 satellites is becoming a global communications layer connecting homes, businesses, aircraft, ships, government operations, rescue missions and ordinary smartphones SpaceX is building connectivity infrastructure for the entire planet