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T-Mobile’s Satellite Connectivity Leads While AT&T and Verizon Struggle to Launch

T-Mobile is making significant strides in satellite connectivity, advancing its direct-to-cell service in partnership with SpaceX, while AT&T and Verizon have yet to launch their comparable programs. T-Mobile’s innovative collaboration aims to provide cellular coverage from space, addressing connectivity challenges in areas without terrestrial network support.

In contrast, AT&T and Verizon have aligned with AST SpaceMobile, a company focused on developing a space-based cellular network. During a recent discussion at the Mobile World Congress (MWC), AST’s CEO Abel Avellan shared insights with Rakuten’s CEO Mickey Mikitani regarding the vision of providing global cellular service from satellites.

AST SpaceMobile’s Challenges

Despite showcasing its technology through various demonstrations, AST SpaceMobile currently operates only six satellites in orbit. To initiate its service effectively, the company requires a total of 45 BlueBird satellites. With plans to construct 53 satellites and a commitment to 60 launches, AST aims to launch continuous service by 2024.

Meanwhile, T-Mobile’s service is already in beta, anticipating a commercial launch in July with the help of SpaceX’s fleet of 515 satellites. Some analysts, including Joe Madden of Mobile Experts, suggest that while AST’s deployment of 60 satellites might support U.S. coverage, a more extensive network of at least 95 satellites would be necessary to accommodate global demand.

Technical Specifications and Network Capacity

AST’s satellite antennas are larger than those used by SpaceX’s Starlink, yet the latter has a more substantial number of satellites operational. With concerns regarding the capacity and speed of AST’s smaller fleet, analysts emphasize the potential challenges in meeting user demand.

AST SpaceMobile has touted speeds of up to 20 Mbps; however, Madden indicates that such speeds may be divided among numerous users due to the extensive coverage areas that the satellites must serve. Initially, it seems AST will focus on providing basic text messaging services, with voice service potentially added at a later stage.

The company asserts that each satellite can support one million users monthly under a plan of 1GB, although they acknowledge that the service will be more effective in sparsely populated regions. Each satellite cell offers 20 Mbps, with a total of 2,800 cells contributing to the overall data capacity.

Cost Implications for Users

Despite the ambitious plans, the pricing for AST’s service could range between $5 to $9 per GB, which contrasts sharply with the approximately $0.30 per GB cost associated with terrestrial 5G networks. This disparity raises concerns that satellite connectivity could be 20 times more expensive for consumers.

T-Mobile’s future satellite data service has promised a “skinny” and “low-impact” offering, with free satellite texting available during the beta phase. The company has not yet disclosed pricing details for expanded data support, but it intends to maintain free services for those transitioning from other networks.

According to AST SpaceMobile, the value of their service extends beyond mere texting capabilities. Scott Wisniewski, President of AST SpaceMobile, emphasizes the necessity for robust connectivity that allows users to access the internet when terrestrial options are unavailable, enhancing overall user experience beyond just emergencies.

To achieve its target of having a fleet of 60 satellites in orbit by 2026, AST SpaceMobile will need to secure additional funding, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the venture.

In addition to AST’s efforts, Verizon is collaborating with Skylo Technologies to launch services that support emergency messaging and location sharing, with plans to deliver text messaging capabilities on devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 9.

As the landscape of satellite connectivity develops, T-Mobile’s head start may create a competitive advantage, while AT&T and Verizon face mounting pressure to effectively deploy their respective services and meet consumer expectations.

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www.phonearena.com