Bell Canada has achieved a significant milestone in its satellite-to-mobile coverage initiative by completing the construction of a ground station in Quebec. The company had previously announced a collaboration with AST SpaceMobile, a Texas-based company, to provide space-based cellular services using low-earth orbit satellites.
Testing has commenced at the newly built ground station facility, which will link with AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation to merge its space-based cellular broadband network with Bell’s existing terrestrial network. This station will play a crucial role in supporting direct-to-device satellite service within Canada.
Integration testing, including text messaging, data connectivity, voice calls, and video calls on standard smartphones, has been successfully conducted at the ground station. Further testing of video streaming, public alerts, and additional features is planned in the upcoming weeks.
This technology aims to offer connectivity to Bell customers in areas where traditional wireless networks are not accessible, such as remote northern communities and coastal regions.
Mark McDonald, Bell’s executive vice-president and chief technology officer, highlighted the purpose of the satellite ground infrastructure, emphasizing its role in extending connectivity to underserved and remote regions. The company aims to launch its satellite coverage early next year to complement its existing wireless network.
AST SpaceMobile’s Chief Commercial Officer, Chris Ivory, assured customers of a seamless connectivity experience on their smartphones. Meanwhile, Rogers Communications Inc., a competitor, had launched its satellite-to-mobile service in collaboration with Elon Musk’s SpaceX a year ago. The service integrates Rogers’ wireless network with Starlink’s low-earth orbit satellites to provide connectivity in areas with poor coverage.
Initially offering text messaging to beta users, Rogers later added WhatsApp voice and video calling capabilities. The company also plans to enable traditional cellphone calls, including 911 services, through its satellite service.