Satellite Coverage Layer Services

AT&T Introduced Its AST SpaceMobile BlueBird Service

AT&T is preparing a satellite-backed service that will extend mobile connectivity beyond its terrestrial footprint through a partnership with AST SpaceMobile. The offering is designed to let standard smartphones connect directly to Low Earth orbit BlueBird satellites using AT&T’s licensed spectrum, with terrestrial gateways linking satellite traffic to the carrier’s mobile core.

AST SpaceMobile provides the space-based platform and gateway technology, while AT&T supplies spectrum, network integration, billing and distribution under a commercial agreement running through 2030. The service is expected to support voice, text and mobile data, with video as a possible future capability. AST SpaceMobile has cited design targets of up to 40 MHz per beam and peak speeds of 120 Mbps.

For consumers, the service could expand connectivity for emergency, remote and maritime use cases. The partnership reflects a broader shift toward satellite networks complementing terrestrial mobile coverage rather than replacing it.

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