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AT&T and Verizon have successfully conducted their inaugural satellite-to-phone video calls utilizing AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites, which orbit at a low altitude to enhance connectivity for standard mobile devices. Verizon officially announced its first satellite call, while AT&T initiated a test aimed at future commercial network deployments. AST SpaceMobile is leveraging the 850 MHz spectrum from both AT&T and Verizon to provide on-demand satellite services, ensuring they can be accessed through conventional smartphones.
In a significant achievement, AT&T and Verizon have completed their first satellite-to-phone video call using AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites. These satellites are positioned in low Earth orbit, designed to provide reliable connectivity directly to everyday cell phones.
Verizon made the announcement through a press release, highlighting its first video call via satellite, while AT&T also achieved a comparable milestone using their satellite technology, which is expected to be commercially available shortly.
Both carriers are working with satellite service providers, particularly AST SpaceMobile, to enhance their network capabilities. The aim is to create a satellite-enabled cellular broadband network that can keep users connected in areas where traditional cellular service is lacking.
The experiments demonstrated the potential for seamless integration between satellite and terrestrial networks. A live video call, where one participant was using a satellite connection and the other was connected through AT&T’s and Verizon’s cellular networks, represents a notable advancement in merging satellite technology with conventional mobile connectivity.
AST SpaceMobile is developing a direct-to-device services model in the U.S., making use of the 850 MHz spectrum from Verizon and AT&T. This spectrum was selected specifically for its compatibility with standard smartphones, making it easier for consumers to access satellite services.
During these trials, both carriers utilized AST SpaceMobile’s constellation of five BlueBird satellites, which were launched last September.
Prior to these developments, AT&T collaborated with AST SpaceMobile on a previous video call test in 2023, which also included the participation of Rakuten Group.
AT&T is optimistic about the imminent launch of commercial satellite services, powered by the BlueBird satellites from AST SpaceMobile.
The U.S. wireless market is increasingly competitive in the satellite communication sector. T-Mobile, for example, has made headlines with its collaboration with Starlink, which is currently in the beta testing phase for its subscribers.
Recent authorization by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), granting Special Temporary Authority (STA) for satellite broadband testing, has propelled these companies forward in integrating video call capabilities into standard smartphones.
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