Bell to Launch Direct-to-Cell Satellite Service Next Year

Bell and Texas-based AST SpaceMobile say they have successfully completed Canada’s first space-based cellular test, making a direct-to-cell voice call and streaming video over satellite to a regular smartphone.

The trial, carried out in New Brunswick this summer, used AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites along with Bell’s ground infrastructure. In addition to a 4G voice call, the test included video calls, SMS messaging, broadband data, and emergency alerts — all on an unmodified phone.

Bell says the technology will help extend coverage to remote and northern regions that are difficult to reach with traditional networks. The company is targeting a wider rollout of space-based voice, text, and broadband services in 2026.

When fully deployed, Bell’s network is expected to cover more than 5.7 million square kilometres, including areas north of the 59th parallel and offshore maritime zones.

“This is a breakthrough moment for connectivity in Canada. Our strategic investment in AST SpaceMobile, coupled with our ownership and operation of the Canadian ground infrastructure and deployment of low band spectrum, means we are uniquely positioned to deliver a highly reliable space-based cellular service that Canadians can depend on, built with their security and connectivity needs as the top priority. This technology also opens significant possibilities for enterprises including remote operations and monitoring in sectors like natural resources, energy and the environment, providing critical data and enabling new efficiencies for Canadian businesses,” said Mark McDonald, EVP and Chief Technology Officer, Bell, in a statement to iPhone in Canada on Thursday.

The service is also being positioned as a tool for emergency response and industries such as mining, forestry, agriculture, and energy, where connectivity is often limited.

Bell first partnered with AST SpaceMobile in 2021 and has invested in the project through Bell Ventures. The company operates the Canadian ground stations, or gateways, that connect the satellites to user devices.

AST SpaceMobile’s first five commercial satellites were launched one year ago–by SpaceX and its reusable Falcon 9 rocket. Given how AST SpaceMobile is a commercial offering, Starlink remains unrivalled for direct-to-consumer satellite internet. Oh, and the fact it has nearly 8,500 satellites in orbit at the moment.

Back in the summer, Rogers launched its direct-to-cell service powered by SpaceX’s Starlink. Coverage recently expanded and Starlink direct-to-cell data services are already underway in the U.S. through its partner T-Mobile.

Telus has yet to offer direct-to-cell satellite offerings at the moment, but that will likely change at some point to match its rivals. In the fall of 2023 it conducted trials with TerreStar and Skylo for direct-to-cell for texting and connecting Internet of Things devices.