Verizon has entered into a $100 million agreement with AST SpaceMobile to extend satellite coverage across the United States. This partnership aims to achieve 100% geographical coverage by utilizing the 850 MHz spectrum, particularly in areas lacking traditional terrestrial service.
AT&T takes a significant leap forward in its plans to offer satellite direct-to-phone services following the finalization of commercial terms with low Earth orbit (LEO) operator AST SpaceMobile. The agreement sets the stage for AT&T to provide non-terrestrial network (NTN) coverage through SpaceMobile’s constellation until 2030. Although a firm launch date for SpaceMobile’s network is yet to be confirmed, AT&T anticipates the delivery of the first commercial satellites to Cape Canaveral this summer.
AST SpaceMobile has made history by successfully connecting a direct voice call between the United States and Japan via its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, using standard smartphones. The use of standard smartphones makes this a world first, as no one has previously achieved a direct voice connection from space to unmodified cellular devices. AST SpaceMobile partnered with some of its mobile operator partners, including AT&T, Rakuten, and Vodafone, to make the connection. The test call was made using AT&T spectrum and a Samsung Galaxy S22 smartphone in the Midland, Texas area, connecting to Rakuten in Japan. The successful test call validated AST SpaceMobile’s network architecture and systems, including its BW3 satellite, which it describes as the largest commercial communications array in low-earth orbit. The call also paves the way for space-based cellular broadband. AST SpaceMobile’s goal is to provide coverage to close to 50% of the world’s population…
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has given AST SpaceMobile, a five-year-old company located in Midland, Texas, permission to test a satellite that has the potential to deliver cellular broadband access for smartphone users in the US and throughout the world. According to the business, it is developing the first and only space-based cellular broadband network that will be immediately accessible by regular mobile phones. SpaceMobile, the company’s proposed network, intends to provide 4G/5G access to everyone on the world, on land, at sea, and in the air. No matter where they are, mobile customers will be able to seamlessly roam from terrestrial networks to the space-based network. AST SpaceMobile is launching BlueWalker 3, a test satellite meant to interact directly with mobile phones using 3GPP standard frequencies. The FCC has granted the business an experimental license for BlueWalker 3 space-to-ground testing in the United States. At least…
Vodafone’s billion-dollar investment in SpaceMobile underscores its strategic emphasis on the burgeoning telco-satellite sector. This move highlights Vodafone as a dynamic matchmaker, fostering telco-satellite collaborations to enhance services like direct-to-device communications, fixed wireless access, and robust remote connectivity. While opportunities abound, challenges in scalability and integration persist, demanding strategic agility.
Vodafone’s exciting joint venture with SpaceMobile is forging ahead with a Satellite Operations Centre in Germany. Set to launch in 2026, this ambitious project will boost satellite-based cellular broadband across Europe. Vodafone’s commitment to satellite technology enhances public safety and disaster relief, offering valuable communication solutions in remote areas.
SatCo, a collaboration between Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile, is set to revolutionize telecommunications by delivering space-based cellular broadband across Europe. This initiative ensures continuous connectivity, even in remote areas, enhancing digital sovereignty.
As telecommunications swiftly evolve, Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile’s partnership is pivotal. By offering space-based cellular broadband, their agreement redefines access beyond traditional networks.
In the evolving world of European digital infrastructure, major players like Indra and AST SpaceMobile are making strategic moves that could redefine VoIP capabilities. Indra’s acquisition of Hispasat reinforces its ambition in space communication, while AST’s recent satellite launch promises to bolster connectivity in underserved regions, crucial for robust VoIP services.
FirstNet now exceeds 7 million subscribers, covering nearly 3 million square miles. AT&T continues expanding the network, adding 20,000 square miles and enhancing coverage with AST SpaceMobile’s Non-Terrestrial Networks. Indoor connectivity also improves with HPUE and signal boosters. As FirstNet grows, public safety groups push for its reauthorization.
