TELUS and AST SpaceMobile have successfully completed end-to-end network integration testing, enabling direct-to-device connectivity for standard smartphones via low Earth orbit satellites. The partnership aims to provide cellular broadband and emergency services across Canada, with commercial availability expected within the next 12 months.
This integration proves that space-based cellular broadband can function as a seamless extension of terrestrial MNO infrastructure rather than a niche satellite service. For the streaming ecosystem, this technology effectively expands the total addressable market by providing high-bandwidth data to previously unreachable 'white zones' in northern and rural territories. By utilizing standard 3GPP-compliant devices, the partnership removes the hardware friction that previously limited mobile video consumption in remote areas. Watch for the deployment cadence of Block 2 BlueBird satellites over the next year to determine when continuous, high-speed data coverage becomes commercially viable for Canadian subscribers.
The broader satellite broadband expansion is currently being supported by new regulatory frameworks, including a satellite spectrum auction aimed at closing connectivity gaps, while operators continue to fix infrastructure before scaling AI to ensure network stability. The expansion of CNN All Access into the Canadian market further highlights the growing demand for high-quality streaming content in regions previously limited by connectivity.
TELUS and AST SpaceMobile have successfully completed network integration tests for direct-to-smartphone satellite broadband. By using low Earth orbit satellites, the partnership enables standard LTE and 5G devices to access high-speed data in remote regions. This milestone eliminates hardware barriers, potentially expanding mobile video streaming access to previously unreachable areas.
The integration uses low Earth orbit satellites and the AST5000 ASIC to provide direct-to-device connectivity for unmodified smartphones using standard 850 MHz and mid-band spectrum.
Network tests achieved peak transmission speeds of 120 Mbps per coverage cell.
Commercial availability is targeted within the next 12 months, with an initial focus on emergency 9-1-1 routing and text messaging before expanding to full video streaming.
In addition to TELUS, the strategic investor group includes AT&T, Verizon, and Bell Canada.
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