Samsung Phones Power Historic Satellite Connectivity Breakthrough in Canada

Bell Canada and AST SpaceMobile have successfully tested direct satellite calls on standard smartphones. This groundbreaking test used unmodified Samsung Galaxy devices. It marks a significant step toward seamless connectivity in remote areas.

The demonstration involved voice, data, and video streaming. It proves that future satellite services will not require special hardware. This technology is expected to launch commercially in Canada next year.

How the Direct-to-Cell Service Works

The test utilized AST SpaceMobile’s low Earth orbit satellites. According to Reuters, these satellites connect directly to everyday mobile phones. Users simply need a compatible device from a partner like Samsung.

This system provides a reliable data connection where traditional cellular service fails. It enables everything from VoLTE calls to streaming video. The service is designed to be seamless for the end-user.

This advancement moves beyond basic emergency texting. It opens up full broadband capabilities via satellite. The video proof showed a Galaxy S25 Ultra handling a video call effortlessly.

The Broader Impact on Mobile Connectivity

This success in Canada mirrors similar progress globally. Japan’s Rakuten Mobile completed a comparable test with Samsung phones earlier this year. It shows a consistent pattern of trust in the hardware.

The immediate impact will be on people in rural and wilderness areas. They will gain access to robust communication tools. This can enhance safety and business operations.

For the mobile industry, it sets a new standard for connectivity. Manufacturers are now under pressure to ensure their devices are satellite-compatible. This technology will likely become a standard feature in future smartphones.

This breakthrough firmly positions Samsung phones at the forefront of the next connectivity revolution. The era of dead zones may soon be over, thanks to these direct-to-cell satellite advancements.

Info at your fingertips

What is direct-to-cell satellite technology?

It is a service that allows standard smartphones to connect directly to satellites in space. This provides voice, text, and data services in areas without cellular coverage. No special hardware or apps are required for the user.

When will this service be available to Bell Canada customers?

Bell Canada plans to launch its low Earth orbit direct-to-cell service next year. The exact timeline and pricing have not been announced yet. The service will rely on the AST SpaceMobile satellite network.

Which Samsung phone models are compatible?

The test was conducted using unmodified Galaxy phones, including a Galaxy S25 Ultra. Specific model compatibility for the commercial launch will be confirmed closer to the release date. Older models may not support the feature.

How does this affect battery life on the phone?

Connecting to satellites requires more power than a standard cellular connection. This can lead to faster battery drain during use. The full impact on battery performance will be clearer after real-world public testing.

Will this service work indoors?

Satellite signals typically require a clear line of sight to the sky. Initial use will likely be limited to outdoor environments or near windows. The technology is not designed to replace indoor Wi-Fi or cellular service.