AST SpaceMobile Announces Satellite-to-Smartphone Integration Test with Telus
On Tuesday, AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ: ASTS) saw its stock rise by over 8% after announcing a successful satellite-to-smartphone integration test with Canadian telecom company Telus. The milestone is part of efforts to connect Telus's cellular network with AST’s BlueBird satellite constellation, enabling users in remote areas without traditional cell service to make calls and texts via satellite. AST SpaceMobile aims for Telus customers to use compatible smartphones beyond the reach of terrestrial towers within a year. However, progress remains constrained by limited access to launch vehicles; only SpaceX is currently available after delays with Blue Origin. AST plans two more launches this year but analysts doubt it will deploy 20 satellites before the end of 2026. The company needs between 45 and 60 satellites for coverage in select markets, yet has launched just 13 so far.
Topics: AST SpaceMobile satellite communications smartphone integration Telus Corporation