Bell and AST SpaceMobile have successfully completed Canada’s first space-based direct-to-cell test using unmodified smartphones. The demonstration, conducted in New Brunswick, validated 4G VoLTE calls, video calls, broadband data streaming with the Bell Fibe TV app, SMS messaging, and emergency alerts. The trial relied on AST’s BlueBird satellite and Bell’s sovereign gateway infrastructure operating on low-band spectrum.
The milestone builds on Bell’s 2021 investment in AST and positions the company to extend wireless coverage to Canada’s most remote regions in 2026. The partners expect the service to support residential customers, emergency response, and industries such as mining, forestry, agriculture, and energy, while also enhancing connectivity for tourism and outdoor recreation. Bell said its planned deployment will cover 5.7 million square kilometres, including coastal maritime zones and areas north of the 59th parallel.
Bell’s involvement includes not only financial investment through Bell Ventures but also ownership of Canadian gateway stations and spectrum, ensuring the service is sovereign and directly operated. AST SpaceMobile highlighted that the test marks another step toward bringing direct-to-cellular broadband to unconnected populations worldwide.
- First Canadian test of space-based 4G VoLTE call, video call, SMS, broadband data, and emergency alerts using standard smartphones
- Conducted over AST BlueBird satellite and Bell sovereign gateways in New Brunswick
- Planned commercial deployment in 2026 covering 5.7 million km² across Canada
- Service aims to support consumers, enterprises, and public safety in remote regions
- Bell has been an AST investor since 2021 and contributes expertise and ground infrastructure
“This is a breakthrough moment for connectivity in Canada… We are uniquely positioned to deliver a highly reliable space-based cellular service that Canadians can depend on,” said Mark McDonald, EVP and Chief Technology Officer at Bell.
🌐 Analysis: AST SpaceMobile has marked a series of critical milestones in 2025. In April, the company launched its first five operational BlueBird satellites. By mid-year, it completed direct-to-cell 4G broadband demonstrations with Vodafone in Europe and AT&T in the U.S., confirming international interoperability. This Canadian test adds a sovereign-market validation, crucial for regulatory and commercial momentum ahead of its planned 2026 service rollout. AST’s roadmap includes scaling its constellation to at least 20 satellites by late 2025, expanding service trials with global operators, and preparing for 5G direct-to-cell capabilities.
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