Verizon has signed a commercial agreement with AST SpaceMobile to provide satellite-to-phone connectivity, aiming to enhance coverage in dead zones using orbiting satellites, competing with SpaceX's Starlink service. The deal involves a $100 million commitment and access to radio spectrum, with plans to deploy 45-60 satellites by the end of 2024, though launch delays pose challenges.
SpaceX has received approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to conduct tests for a satellite phone service using its Gen2 Starlink satellites. The tests will involve approximately 840 satellites with direct-to-cellular payloads, and frequencies in the 1910-1915 MHz and 1990-1995 MHz bands will be used. T-Mobile USA will cooperate with SpaceX for these trials. The proposed service aims to extend cellphone coverage to remote areas in the US and its territorial waters. SpaceX plans to expand coverage through agreements with carriers in other regions. However, AT&T has raised concerns about potential interference with adjacent frequency blocks. The FCC also denied SpaceX's bid for $885 million in subsidies for rural broadband service.
