Rogers is expanding its satellite-to-mobile service just in time for the spring outdoor season, adding support for Messenger and onX. The update allows hikers, hunters, and off-grid travellers to stay connected in remote areas where traditional cell towers don’t reach.
The service effectively turns a standard smartphone into a satellite-connected device, allowing users to send voice notes and messages through Facebook Messenger or use onX maps.
“Canadians should be able to stay connected no matter where their travels take them,” said Mark Kennedy, Chief Technology Officer at Rogers, in a statement. “With Rogers Satellite now powering these apps, customers can stay on top of weather, find their way on remote highways and trails, and check in with family when they’re beyond the reach of traditional cell towers.”
The service is powered by a partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, utilizing the Starlink Direct to Cell constellation. Unlike older satellite technology that required specialized and bulky hardware, this system connects to unmodified smartphones by mimicking an LTE signal from orbit.
Since its commercial rollout in late 2024, the service has steadily added satellite-ready applications. In addition to the new support for Messenger and onX, Rogers Satellite already powers voice and video calls through WhatsApp, navigation via Google Maps, real-time storm tracking from AccuWeather, as well as text-to-911 services.
Rogers reported that the service is seeing the highest density of use in famous cell dead zones across the country. Key hotspots include: Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario; The Sea-to-Sky region, British Columbia; Canmore, Alberta; and Lacs-du-Témiscamingue, Quebec.
The satellite to mobile service is available to anyone in Canada at $15 per month, though it is included for 12 to 24 months on select Rogers plans (usually their most expensive plans).
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