Bell Canada has achieved a significant milestone in its satellite-to-mobile coverage project by completing the construction of a ground station in Quebec. The telecommunications company had announced plans last fall to collaborate with AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based company, to offer space-based cellular service using low-earth orbit satellites.
Testing has commenced at the ground station facility, which will link with AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation to merge its space-based cellular broadband network with Bell’s terrestrial network. This ground station will contribute to the Canadian infrastructure supporting direct-to-device satellite service.
Integration testing, including text messaging, data connectivity, voice calls, and video calls on standard smartphones, has been successfully completed at the ground station. Further tests for video streaming, public alerts, and additional features are scheduled in the upcoming weeks.
The purpose of this technology is to ensure connectivity for Bell customers in regions where traditional wireless networks do not reach, such as northern communities and remote coastal areas.
Mark McDonald, Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer, stated that the satellite ground infrastructure being developed will provide various direct-to-device capabilities, extending connectivity to remote and underserved areas. This, combined with Bell’s existing wireless network, will enable customers to stay connected regardless of their location.
Bell aims to launch its satellite coverage early next year. Chris Ivory, chief commercial officer for AST SpaceMobile, assured customers of a seamless connectivity experience on their smartphones.
Rogers Communications Inc., a competitor, introduced its own satellite-to-mobile service a year ago in partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX. By integrating its wireless network with Starlink’s low-earth orbit satellites, Rogers can connect cellphones in areas with poor coverage. Initially offering text messaging for beta users, Rogers later added WhatsApp voice and video calling capabilities. Additional apps like Google Maps are now operational through Rogers Satellite, with plans to enable traditional cellphone calls, including 911 services, this year.
