This year, satellite video calls will make their debut in Europe, following a successful technology demonstration by Vodafone in collaboration with AST SpaceMobile. The US rollout through AT&T will follow at a later date.
Similar to existing satellite text and voice communication, this service will be available in remote regions lacking cellular coverage …
Apple Pioneered Satellite Texting
Although satellite communication via specialized hardware has existed for decades, it is only recently that this capability has been made accessible on standard smartphones.
Apple was a trailblazer with its Emergency SOS via Satellite feature, which launched in 2022, enabling users to contact emergency services in remote areas without cellular service. This service was expanded last year to allow messaging with family and friends as well.
Initially, Apple collaborated with Globalstar for these services, but recent reports indicate that they are now also partnering with SpaceX and T-Mobile to enhance connectivity via Starlink satellites.
Voice and Data Capabilities Demonstrated in 2023
In 2023, AST SpaceMobile showcased that smartphones can make voice calls and access mobile data through satellite technology.
Engineers from the company demonstrated space-based 5G connectivity by placing a call from Maui, Hawaii, to a Vodafone engineer located in Madrid, Spain, utilizing AT&T spectrum and the AST SpaceMobile’s BlueWalker 3 test satellite […]
They also set a new record for space-based cellular broadband by achieving download speeds of around 14 Mbps in a separate test.
Satellite Video Calling to Launch This Year
The same organization has teamed up with Vodafone to demonstrate video calling via satellite from what looks like an iPhone to an Android device.
Vodafone successfully conducted the world’s inaugural space video call using standard 4G/5G smartphones and satellites that will enable multiple users in areas lacking mobile coverage to make and receive video calls, access the internet, and utilize online messaging services […]
Vodafone engineer Rowan Chesmer tested this by making the historic call to Margherita from a remote mountainous area in mid-Wales—an area that has never had mobile broadband access.
You can view the call below.
The company has announced that this service will launch in Europe later this year, with complete coverage anticipated by the end of 2026.
The Verge reports that AT&T is also trialing services in the US, but these are likely to be launched after Vodafone’s rollout in Europe.
Neither Vodafone nor AT&T has disclosed pricing details.
Image: Vodafone
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