AST SpaceMobile (ASTS), the company developing the world\u2019s first space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard smartphones, announced a landmark commercial agreement with Verizon (VZ) to bring satellite connectivity to Verizon customers beginning in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The collaboration will integrate AST SpaceMobile\u2019s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network with Verizon\u2019s award-winning terrestrial infrastructure, providing service continuity in areas where traditional coverage is limited or unavailable. Using Verizon\u2019s premium 850 MHz spectrum, the partnership aims to extend high-speed mobile broadband access from city centers to the most remote hiking trails, ensuring users stay connected wherever they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis definitive agreement with Verizon brings us closer to delivering space-based cellular broadband coverage across the continental United States,\u201d said Abel Avellan, founder, chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile. \u201cBy leveraging Verizon\u2019s low-band spectrum, we can reach areas that stand to benefit most from the ubiquitous connectivity our technology enables.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
AST SpaceMobile\u2019s network features the largest commercial communications arrays ever deployed in LEO and can connect directly to unmodified smartphones. The system operates across multiple spectrums, including the company\u2019s licensed L-band and S-band, and up to 1,150 MHz of low- and mid-band spectrum from its global mobile network partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The partnership follows a series of successful tests, including clear voice and video calls between unmodified smartphones on Verizon\u2019s network using AST SpaceMobile\u2019s BlueBird satellite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis partnership marks a new era in connectivity,\u201d said Srini Kalapala, Verizon\u2019s Senior Vice President of Technology and Product Development. \u201cBy merging our robust terrestrial network with AST SpaceMobile\u2019s satellite technology, we\u2019re creating a future where coverage truly knows no boundaries.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n