Telus, AST SpaceMobile complete first satellite-to-smartphone network test

Canadian telecom giant Telus and satellite manufacturer AST SpaceMobile have completed the first integration between Telus’ wireless network and AST SpaceMobile’s satellite constellation.

The press release says the test marked “significant milestones” in accessing broadband data, making voice calls, and sending texts directly between smartphones and satellites.

According to Telus, the goal is to allow customers to use eligible smartphones beyond the reach of cell towers and help close existing coverage gaps.

Telus notes this coverage will expand access to emergency services and support workers in remote or northern communities.

Interestingly, wireless research platform PlanHub says that when the two companies announced the commercial partnership in March, the pair targeted late 2026 for service; today’s announcement uses a broader timeline, noting that the service is expected to be available to Telus customers within the next year. However, AST SpaceMobile failed a development test in April, so I imagine that pushed the timeline back a bit.

I should also point out that Telus isn’t the only Canadian telecom company that is offering (or planning to offer) satellite-to-mobile service. Rogers launched its satellite-to-mobile service, Rogers Satellite, with Starlink in July, 2025, while Bell will also use AST SpaceMobile for its upcoming satellite-to-mobile service.

Source: Telus, AST SpaceMobile via PlanHub