In a remarkable technological feat, AST SpaceMobile, the pioneer in space-based cellular broadband networks, has accomplished repeated successful download speeds surpassing 10 Mbps during the testing phase of BlueWalker 3. This groundbreaking milestone marks the first-ever instance of space-based cellular 4G communications using smartphones.

Space-Based communication will help provide connectivity to dead network zones over the globe

The tests, conducted by engineers in Hawaii during June, utilized off-the-shelf smartphones and leveraged AT&T spectrum and Nokia RAN technology. Initial speeds reached an impressive 10.3 Mbps, while subsequent voice call testing with AT&T employees showcased the versatility of the system. As newer iterations of BlueWalker 3 continue to be created, the next major milestone will be 5G cellular broadband. It won’t take too long, that’s for sure.

AST SpaceMobile

Abel Avellan, Chairman and CEO of AST SpaceMobile, emphasized the transformative potential of this achievement, stating, “AST SpaceMobile’s space-based cellular capabilities are designed to be a critical extension for cellular communications. This groundbreaking moment in telecommunications history brings us closer to our goal of providing broadband services to regions lacking reliable or non-existent cellular coverage.”

The successful achievement of double-digit download speeds during satellite-to-smartphone testing represents a significant step towards universal connectivity. Chris Sambar, Head of AT&T Network, also expressed the importance of this milestone in ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for people across the United States, irrespective of their location.

The impact of this development is not limited to the United States. Alberto Ripepi, Chief Network Officer at Vodafone, explained how achieving such mobile speeds through satellite communication directly to standard 4G smartphones brings people closer together by making networks more accessible. Vodafone, Vodacom, and AST SpaceMobile are committed to bringing this capability to hard-to-reach areas in Africa and Europe.

Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, stressed the importance of delivery of real mobile broadband connectivity directly to smartphones. This should be treated as a critical achievement that will foster global connectivity in the long run. AST SpaceMobile’s technology also aims to expand coverage for wireless companies, bridging gaps and dead zones in their networks. This breakthrough has the potential to extend cellular broadband services to millions worldwide, currently lacking reliable cellular connectivity. The number is bigger than you might think.

With agreements with over 35 mobile network operators worldwide, AST SpaceMobile’s impact will become clearer over the long run. Major players in the telecommunications game, such as Vodafone Group, AT&T, and Bell Canada have previously expressed support in favor of AST SpaceMobile’s technology. As the company prepares its technology for commercialization, the successful deployment of BlueWalker 3, combined with the largest-ever commercial communications array in low-Earth orbit, will set the stage for the birth of a truly global cellular broadband network. With the advancements in telecommunications rapidly advancing, it won’t be surprising if the near future normalizes global satellite-based communications on mobile devices.

AST SpaceMobile’s mission is to eliminate connectivity gaps faced by the five billion mobile subscribers worldwide and bring broadband services to the millions who remain unconnected. With their groundbreaking achievements and partnerships, it seems like they are one step closer to fulfilling their vision.

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