The Rising Tide of Internet Shutdowns and the Promise of Direct-to-Cell Technology
The debate within the ICT4D community regarding connecting the unconnected – from spectrum allocation to the role of companies like Starlink – continues. However, a more pressing issue is emerging: governments are increasingly adept at wielding the “off switch,” cutting off internet access as a tool of control.
A Dramatic Increase in Internet Blackouts
In 2024 alone, Access Now documented 296 internet shutdowns across 54 countries, a 35% increase in affected countries compared to 2022. Conflict was a major driver, triggering 103 shutdowns in 11 countries. The trend has accelerated into 2025, with the ongoing internet blackout in Iran – beginning January 8th, 2026 – impacting over 90 million people. Human rights monitors have confirmed over 6,200 deaths during the blackout, with reports suggesting the actual number is far higher.
Digital Sovereignty: A False Promise?
The concept of digital sovereignty – building independent national networks – is often presented as a solution. However, Iran’s experience demonstrates its limitations. Despite constructing a robust National Information Network, the government still imposed a complete internet blackout, proving that even “sovereign” systems can be used for rights violations. The technical architecture is less important than the political will to control information.
This pattern is global. Myanmar experienced 85 shutdowns in 2024, while India, the world’s largest democracy, recorded 84. Authoritarian actors are even targeting Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite internet services, like Starlink, as people turn to them during terrestrial network shutdowns.
Direct-to-Cell: A Potential Lifeline
While Starlink terminals have proven effective during the Iranian blackout, access remains a significant hurdle. Acquiring and deploying the hardware requires smuggling, technical expertise, and substantial risk. Direct-to-Cell (D2C) technology offers a solution by connecting standard smartphones directly to orbiting satellites, bypassing the need for specialized equipment.
Several companies are already pioneering D2C technology:
- Starlink is piloting D2C with T-Mobile.
- Apple has deployed satellite-to-phone connectivity on over 200 million iPhones.
- AST SpaceMobile has demonstrated voice, text, and data connectivity to unmodified phones.
- Amazon’s Project Kuiper is building global satellite infrastructure.
Why the ICT4D Community Must Get Involved
The ICT4D community should prioritize D2C for three key reasons:
- The deployment window is closing. If humanitarian applications aren’t integrated into D2C infrastructure now, they likely won’t be added later.
- Proof of concept exists. Starlink terminals already function in restricted environments, demonstrating the viability of satellite connectivity.
- Scale is within reach. D2C has the potential to connect millions of existing smartphones, offering a far greater impact than limited terminal deployments.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the promise, challenges remain. Satellite companies are driven by profit, and crisis zones aren’t typically lucrative markets. Regulatory hurdles, particularly around spectrum allocation, and geopolitical considerations also pose obstacles.
However, the ICT4D community possesses the expertise to address these challenges. Decades of experience in creating sustainable business models for underserved markets, building regulatory frameworks, and coordinating multi-stakeholder interventions can be leveraged to ensure D2C serves humanitarian needs.
A Call to Action
A coalition of human rights organizations, including Access Now, is already campaigning for humanitarian D2C deployment. The ICT4D community must join this effort, advocating for the inclusion of crisis populations in the development and governance of D2C technology.
FAQ
Q: What is Direct-to-Cell (D2C) technology?
A: D2C technology allows smartphones to connect directly to orbiting satellites, providing internet access without the need for ground-based infrastructure or specialized hardware.
Q: Is D2C technology readily available?
A: Several companies are piloting and deploying D2C services, but widespread availability is still developing.
Q: Why is the ICT4D community important in the development of D2C?
A: The ICT4D community has expertise in deploying technology in underserved markets and ensuring it meets the needs of vulnerable populations.
Q: What is the biggest risk with D2C?
A: That the technology will be optimized for profitable markets and not deployed to crisis zones where it is most needed.
Did you know? Iran’s internet blackout highlights the critical need for alternative connectivity solutions during times of political unrest and conflict.
Let’s work together to ensure that Direct-to-Cell technology becomes a lifeline for those facing internet shutdowns, not just another service for those who already have access. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and explore our other articles on digital rights and internet access.
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