First there was T-Mobile as a partner in the U.S., and now SpaceX has inked with Canada’s Rogers for its global cellphone service.
Rogers Communications Inc. and SpaceX announced on Wednesday to bring satellite-to-phone coverage to all Canadians, ensuring continuous connectivity in areas beyond the reach of conventional wireless networks.
Utilizing SpaceX’s Starlink low earth orbit satellites and Rogers’ national wireless spectrum, the companies will introduce satellite-to-phone technology in Canada.
The collaboration will initially provide satellite coverage for SMS text and eventually extend voice and data coverage to the most remote wilderness areas, national parks, and rural highways currently without connection.
“Rogers, as the largest investor in 5G spectrum and operator of Canada’s most extensive 5G network, is thrilled to join forces with SpaceX to extend wireless coverage across the entire country, keeping Canadians connected and secure,” stated Tony Staffieri, President and CEO of Rogers. “In the future, these investments will ensure wireless connectivity, including 911 access, even in the most remote regions.”
“As a Canadian, I am delighted that SpaceX is partnering with Rogers to offer SpaceX’s Direct to Cell service to Canadians. I am proud of the impact this collaboration will have nationwide, wherever Canadians work, play, or travel,” said Sara Spangelo, co-lead for Direct to Cell at SpaceX.
Upon commercial availability, satellite-to-phone coverage will be compatible with all 5G and 4G smartphones. The coverage will support SMS and MMS text and enable all Canadians to contact 911 as first responders and emergency services upgrade their systems for emergency SMS texting.
It’ll be interesting to see when SpaceX will start testing its satellite phone coverage, expected to debut sometime this year. Rogers is one of the three big wireless carriers in Canada along with Telus and Bell.