Rogers today officially announced Rogers Satellite, a new satellite-to-phone text messaging service powered by SpaceX’s Starlink network. The service is now live in beta across Canada, making Rogers the first wireless provider in the country to offer next-gen satellite connectivity — years after first signing a deal with SpaceX in 2023.
The beta, which is free and open to all Canadians, allows users to send texts and access text-to-911 even in areas without traditional cell coverage. Once the beta ends in October, Rogers Satellite will be included for free on the carrier’s Ultimate Plan, or offered à la carte for $15 CAD/month. Beta testers will receive a $5 CAD/month discount for their first year.
“We’re proud to introduce this ground-breaking technology to help Canadians stay safe and connected in more places,” said Rogers President and CEO Tony Staffieri.
“Earlier this month Rogers celebrated the 40th anniversary of the first wireless call in Canada, and this new technology represents the next big leap in wireless connectivity. We’re proud to continue our legacy of innovative firsts and to connect Canadians in more places.”
At launch, the service only supports messaging, but Rogers says it will expand to voice calls, mobile data, and 911 voice support over time. Because it uses Starlink’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites and Rogers’ existing mobile spectrum, it works on most modern smartphones — no hardware changes or satellite phone required.
“Now, with Rogers mobile spectrum paired with satellite technology, Canadians can turn their smartphone into a satellite phone,” said Rogers CTO Mark Kennedy.
Rogers Satellite already covers over 5.4 million square kilometres of Canada — 2.5x more than any other wireless provider. That includes previously unreachable areas like the Rocky Mountains, Northern Ontario, and even parts of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It even provides coverage over bodies of water — essentially, anywhere you have a clear view of the sky.
The launch comes just weeks after SpaceX completed deployment of its first-generation Starlink Direct to Cell constellation. In the U.S., T-Mobile has been testing a satellite messaging service with Starlink since earlier this year, and is now preparing to launch it commercially later this month.
Emergency response organizations in Canada are calling the move a game-changer. “For the first time, people in remote areas will have direct access to emergency services without needing specialized equipment,” said Brian Carriere, President of Alberta’s Search and Rescue Association. The BC Search and Rescue Association echoed the sentiment, calling Rogers Satellite “a crucial step forward for search and rescue operations.”
To join Rogers’ free satellite beta, head over to rogers.com/satellite.
