T · News · 20261102N

Direct-to-Device Satellite Venture

AT&T INC. · 2026-11-02 · Importance 31 · Surprise 42

AT&T and AST SpaceMobile reportedly completed what they described as an industry-first handoff between a ground-based cellular network and a direct-to-device satellite network. The test used ground-based radio, network integration and mobility technologies from Ericsson and Nokia to maintain service continuity during the handoff. The milestone advances AT&T’s plan to complement its wireless network with satellite connectivity in remote and hard-to-reach locations using everyday smartphones. The companies said it brings them closer to commercial service, but the report did not specify a launch date or customer volume.

Key facts

• AT&T and AST SpaceMobile achieved what they described as the industry's first successful handoff between a ground-based cellular network and a direct-to-device satellite network, advancing plans for satellite connectivity in remote and hard-to-reach locations using everyday smartphones and bringing them closer to commercial service. source