Verizon and AST SpaceMobile have successfully demonstrated a live video call between two mobile devices, with one connected via satellite and the other using Verizon’s terrestrial network. This milestone advances Verizon’s ongoing efforts to integrate satellite connectivity into its network, ensuring broader and more reliable communications coverage.
Verizon’s terrestrial network already reaches over 99% of the U.S. population, but the company has been investing in satellite-based innovations to complement its existing infrastructure. The collaboration with AST SpaceMobile is part of this strategy, aiming to create the fastest satellite-to-device network with support for text, voice, and live video calls. This test follows the recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval allowing AST SpaceMobile to test its first five commercial BlueBird satellites using Verizon’s spectrum.
The BlueBird satellites operate in low Earth orbit (LEO) and are designed to enable direct satellite-to-mobile connections without requiring specialized hardware. These satellites support voice, data, and video applications, significantly expanding connectivity options for users in remote areas.
- Live Video Call Demonstration: A video call was successfully completed between a satellite-connected and a terrestrial network-connected device.
- FCC Approval: AST SpaceMobile received authorization to test satellite connections using Verizon’s spectrum.
- BlueBird Satellites: First five commercial LEO satellites are operational, supporting direct-to-mobile voice, data, and video services.
- Expanded Coverage: Satellite integration enhances Verizon’s network reliability, ensuring connectivity in areas without terrestrial coverage.
- Future Prospects: Verizon and AST aim to build the fastest satellite-to-device network for seamless communication.
“This breakthrough marks a new era in cellular-to-satellite connectivity in the United States that enables seamless data transmissions – not just texts – in the rare instance a terrestrial cellular network is not available,” said Hans Vestberg, Chairman and CEO of Verizon.
