#SatelliteCommunication

Technology

Vodafone Sets Record with First Video Call via Satellite Technology

By Jonathan Bala January 30, 2025

Vodafone Sets Record with First Video Call via Satellite Technology

Vodafone has achieved a major milestone in mobile communication by successfully conducting the world’s first-ever satellite-based video call using a standard smartphone. This groundbreaking development, made possible through a partnership with AST SpaceMobile, represents a significant leap in global connectivity, particularly for remote and underserved regions.

This advancement is set to revolutionize mobile networks by enabling direct smartphone-to-satellite communication, eliminating coverage gaps, and ensuring universal access to mobile services.

Summary

Historic Milestone: Vodafone’s engineers initiated a video call from a remote area in the Welsh mountains, devoid of traditional network signals, connecting directly via satellite to CEO Margherita Della Valle.
reuters.com
Technological Collaboration: This achievement was made possible through a partnership with AST SpaceMobile, utilizing their BlueWalker 3 test satellite, which boasts the largest commercial communications array deployed in low Earth orbit.
vodafone.com
Standard Smartphone Usage: The call was conducted using an unmodified Samsung Galaxy S22 smartphone, highlighting the capability of standard devices to connect directly to satellites without specialized equipment.
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites: Operating approximately 500 km above Earth, LEO satellites like BlueWalker 3 offer reduced latency and faster data speeds compared to traditional geostationary satellites.
Beamforming Technology: The use of beamforming allows precise direction of radio signals from satellites to their intended destinations, enhancing speed and reliability while minimizing interference.
Future Deployment Plans: Vodafone aims to roll out this satellite-based mobile broadband service across Europe later this year and into 2026, focusing on eliminating coverage gaps in rural and remote areas.
Industry Partnerships: Investors in AST SpaceMobile include major companies like AT&T, Verizon, and Google, indicating a broad industry commitment to advancing satellite-based mobile connectivity.
Comparison to Existing Services: Unlike current satellite messaging services offered by companies such as Apple and T-Mobile, Vodafone’s solution provides a complete mobile broadband experience, including voice, text, and video data transmission.
Potential Applications: This technology is poised to enhance connectivity in remote areas, support emergency communications, and contribute to closing the digital divide by providing internet access to underserved populations.
Technical Specifications: The system demonstrated download speeds of nearly 14 Mbps during testing, supporting activities such as video chatting, web browsing, and streaming of up to 8K video.
vodafone.com
Historical Context: This achievement comes 40 years after the UK’s first mobile phone call, marking a significant evolution in mobile communication technology.
thesun.ie
Global Connectivity Goals: Vodafone’s initiative aligns with broader efforts to provide universal mobile coverage, ensuring that even the most remote areas have access to reliable communication services.
Environmental Considerations: Utilizing LEO satellites offers a more sustainable approach to expanding network coverage, as they require less power and have a smaller environmental footprint compared to traditional infrastructure.
Regulatory and Licensing: Successful implementation of this technology will involve navigating regulatory frameworks and obtaining necessary licenses to operate satellite-based mobile services across different regions.
Future Prospects: As the technology matures, it is expected to support higher data rates and more advanced services, further integrating satellite and terrestrial networks for seamless global connectivity.

Vodafone Sets Record with First Video Call via Satellite Technology — Communication satelite in earth orbit with moon in background

The Future of Mobile Communication: Vodafone’s Satellite Video Call Breakthrough

On January 29, 2025, Vodafone made history by successfully conducting the world’s first-ever satellite video call using a standard smartphone. This breakthrough eliminates the need for terrestrial mobile towers, offering a revolutionary solution for connectivity in remote areas.

This historic event took place in a rural location in Wales, an area with no conventional network coverage. Using AST SpaceMobile’s BlueWalker 3 satellite, Vodafone engineers placed a seamless video call to CEO Margherita Della Valle, demonstrating that any smartphone can now connect directly to satellites, just as easily as it connects to cell towers.

How the Technology Works

At the heart of this development is AST SpaceMobile’s satellite technology, which allows direct smartphone-to-satellite communication. Unlike existing satellite phones, which require bulky antennas and special hardware, this innovation works with off-the-shelf smartphones.

Key Features of the Technology:

Feature	Details
Satellite Name	BlueWalker 3
Orbit Type	Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
Altitude	~500 km
Download Speed	Up to 14 Mbps
Beamforming	Directs signal to mobile users
Latency	Lower than geostationary satellites
Coverage Area	Remote and rural regions

The Role of AST SpaceMobile

AST SpaceMobile is a leading satellite broadband company specializing in direct-to-mobile services. Their BlueWalker 3 satellite, which enabled Vodafone’s historic call, has the largest commercial communications array ever deployed in LEO.

By forming partnerships with Vodafone, AT&T, and other major carriers, AST SpaceMobile aims to expand global mobile coverage without requiring expensive cell tower infrastructure.

Advantages Over Traditional Mobile Networks

Vodafone’s satellite connectivity outperforms traditional mobile networks in several ways:

1. Coverage Expansion

Unlike traditional cell towers, which require physical infrastructure, satellites provide instant connectivity to previously unreachable regions.

2. Emergency and Disaster Response

This technology is particularly valuable for emergency responders, enabling communication in areas affected by earthquakes, hurricanes, or wildfires.

3. Reduced Infrastructure Costs

Building mobile towers in remote areas is expensive and logistically difficult. Satellite-based networks eliminate this need, offering cost-effective connectivity.

4. No Specialized Equipment Required

Current satellite-based messaging services, such as Apple’s Emergency SOS via Satellite, require special hardware. Vodafone’s service works on regular smartphones.

5. Higher Speeds and Reliability

Unlike geostationary satellites, which suffer from high latency, LEO satellites provide faster and more reliable connections.

Vodafone’s Future Expansion Plans

Vodafone plans to roll out satellite-based mobile broadband across Europe by 2025-2026, with further expansion to Africa and Asia in later phases.

The company is working with regulators and governments to secure spectrum licensing, ensuring seamless integration with existing mobile networks.

Region	Projected Rollout Year	Key Focus Areas
Europe	2025-2026	Rural connectivity
Africa	2026+	Digital inclusion
Asia	2027+	Expanding mobile access

Comparison with Competitors

Vodafone’s satellite mobile broadband faces competition from companies like SpaceX (Starlink), Apple, and T-Mobile. However, its unique direct-to-smartphone approach sets it apart.

Company	Technology	Services Offered
Vodafone	LEO Satellites	Full mobile broadband (voice, text, video)
Apple	Emergency SOS	Limited satellite texting
T-Mobile & Starlink	Starlink Satellites	Satellite messaging & limited voice
Amazon Project Kuiper	LEO Satellites	Satellite internet (not direct-to-phone)

Unlike its competitors, Vodafone’s service supports full mobile functionality, making it a true alternative to traditional networks.

Vodafone’s satellite-based video call marks the beginning of a new era in mobile communication. This achievement not only ensures universal mobile coverage but also opens new opportunities for global connectivity, disaster response, and digital inclusion.

As satellite technology advances, we can expect faster speeds, better reliability, and even global 5G coverage—all from a standard smartphone.

Facts

Historical First: In 2013, mountaineer Daniel Hughes made the first video call from the summit of Mount Everest using an HTC One smartphone, streaming the video via satellite to the BBC.
collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk
Satellite Speed: LEO satellites orbit the Earth at speeds of approximately 7.8 km/s, allowing them to circle the planet in about 90 minutes.
Beamforming Origins: Beamforming technology, now used in satellite communications, was originally developed for radar and sonar applications during World War II.

References

Vodafone makes world’s first satellite video call using standard smartphone – Reuters
Vodafone makes ‘world’s first’ satellite video call from a regular phone ahead of 2025 rollout – The Verge
Vodafone makes world’s first space video call from an area of no mobile coverage – Vodafone News
Vodafone makes satellite video call using standard phone – RCR Wireless News
Vodafone demonstrates ‘world’s first’ satellite video call with a standard mobile phone – Engadget
Vodafone does the first video call over satellite that uses a regular cellphone – GSMArena
Vodafone makes the world’s first-ever satellite video call with basic smartphone – The Times of India
AST SpaceMobile, Starlink Rival, Jumps On Long-Term Vodafone Deal – Investor’s Business Daily
Brits will ALWAYS have mobile phone & internet signal after tech breakthrough that beats Elon Musk’s Starlink – The Sun
Making a historic direct-to-device satellite video call from a standard smartphone – YouTube

#Vodafone, #SatelliteCommunication, #ASTSpaceMobile, #MobileTechnology, #5G, #SpaceTech, #TelecomInnovation, #GlobalConnectivity, #DigitalInclusion, #TechBreakthrough

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Satellite Technology

Starlink Satellites Bring Universal Calling to iPhones and Android Smartphones

By Jonathan Bala December 31, 2024

Starlink Satellites Bring Universal Calling to iPhones and Android Smartphones

Starlink, a division of SpaceX, is redefining mobile communication through its Direct-to-Cell service. This innovation enables voice calls and messaging on regular smartphones, without requiring any specialized hardware or modifications. With a vast satellite network, Starlink promises universal connectivity, even in remote regions, bridging global communication gaps. The service, while still in its early stages, is compatible with most LTE-enabled devices and aims to revolutionize how people stay connected in emergencies and everyday life.

Summary

Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service will allow regular smartphones, both iPhones and Androids, to make calls and send texts via its satellite network.
The service does not require specialized hardware—any LTE-enabled device is sufficient.
This innovation promises to bring connectivity to remote regions, including oceans, deserts, and rainforests.
Successful testing has been conducted with popular smartphone brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google.
Even slightly older models, such as the iPhone 13 and iPhone 14, are compatible with the technology.
The system supports fully customizable messaging platforms, unlike traditional satellite communication systems.
This service could save lives during emergencies, providing reliable communication where traditional networks fail.
The technology is being positioned as a solution for travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and rural areas with limited mobile network coverage.
SpaceX is also planning future upgrades, including Internet of Things (IoT) support and satellite-enabled web browsing.
Starlink’s innovation addresses the digital divide, offering a lifeline to underserved and rural communities.
Commercial packages for the service will be released soon, but pricing details are yet to be announced.
Direct-to-Cell could potentially replace cell towers, providing global coverage without infrastructure challenges.
The service also has implications for businesses, ensuring uninterrupted operations in remote locations.
SpaceX has partnered with major companies to access the PCS G Block spectrum, ensuring reliable performance.
Elon Musk’s vision for Starlink represents a significant step in modern communication and universal access.
The rollout of this service is expected to reshape the telecommunications industry, offering unprecedented global reach.

Revolutionizing Connectivity: Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell Service

Starlink, a subdivision of SpaceX, has already disrupted internet accessibility by providing high-speed satellite internet to remote locations. However, the company’s latest innovation, Direct-to-Cell, aims to revolutionize mobile communication by enabling smartphones to connect directly to its satellite network for calls and messaging. This innovation removes the dependency on traditional cell towers and could redefine how we stay connected, especially in challenging terrains or during emergencies.

What sets this apart is its seamless integration with existing smartphones. Users do not need to buy new hardware or make any upgrades. If your phone is LTE-compatible, you’re good to go. For many, this is a game-changer, eliminating the need for bulky satellite phones or unreliable communication options.

How It Works

Starlink’s technology leverages its vast satellite constellation to establish direct connections with smartphones. This is achieved through partnerships with major carriers and spectrum allocation, ensuring compatibility with popular devices like Apple’s iPhones and Samsung’s flagship models.

According to SpaceX, the service has already undergone successful testing, proving its capability to connect urban, rural, and even challenging environments like forests or open seas.

Compatibility Across Devices

Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service is designed with universality in mind. Unlike other satellite communication solutions, this service does not restrict users to specific models or brands. Whether you own an iPhone 14, a Samsung Galaxy S22, or a Google Pixel, your phone can leverage this cutting-edge connectivity. The service ensures compatibility across all LTE-enabled smartphones, making it accessible to a vast global audience.

Older devices aren’t left behind either. SpaceX confirmed that slightly older models, like the iPhone 13, work seamlessly with the network, ensuring widespread adoption without forcing users to upgrade their phones.

Applications Beyond Convenience

While the convenience of universal connectivity is appealing, the true impact of Starlink’s service lies in its life-saving potential. The system is designed to provide reliable communication in emergency situations, where traditional networks often fail. From natural disasters to outdoor expeditions, this technology ensures that users can stay connected, relay crucial information, and receive help when needed.

Unlike traditional satellite communication systems that restrict users to pre-set text options, Starlink allows for fully customizable messages. This flexibility can make a critical difference in emergencies, enabling users to send detailed information about their location or situation.

Future Implications

Starlink is not stopping at calls and texts. According to a letter sent by SpaceX to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the company plans to expand its services to include IoT connectivity, voice communication, and web browsing through its satellite network. These developments could open up new opportunities for industries ranging from logistics to healthcare.

Table 1: Current and Future Applications of Starlink Direct-to-Cell

Current Applications	Future Applications
Voice Calls	Internet of Things (IoT)
Text Messaging	Satellite-enabled Web Browsing
Emergency Communication	Advanced Voice Communication
Remote Location Connectivity	Business Operations Support

One of the most significant challenges in global communication is the digital divide—the gap between those with access to reliable connectivity and those without. Despite advances in mobile networks, vast regions remain underserved, especially in developing countries. Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service could offer a lifeline to these areas, providing affordable, reliable communication options.

For rural communities, where building cell towers is often impractical or too expensive, satellite connectivity offers a practical solution. Similarly, for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts venturing into uncharted territories, Starlink ensures that they are never out of reach.

Impact on Telecommunications

The rollout of Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service is expected to disrupt the telecommunications industry significantly. By bypassing traditional infrastructure, such as cell towers, this innovation could reduce the dependency on regional networks, leveling the playing field for users in remote locations.

Table 2: Comparison of Traditional Networks vs. Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell

Feature	Traditional Networks	Starlink Direct-to-Cell
Dependency on Cell Towers	High	None
Coverage in Remote Areas	Limited	Universal
Hardware Requirements	New Models Often Required	LTE-Compatible Devices Only
Emergency Accessibility	Often Unreliable	Highly Reliable

Challenges and Considerations

While the technology is promising, there are challenges to address. Cost is a significant factor, as satellite communication has traditionally been more expensive than traditional mobile networks. SpaceX has not yet revealed the pricing details for this service, but ensuring affordability will be crucial for widespread adoption.

Regulatory hurdles also need to be overcome. Operating a global satellite network requires approval from multiple governing bodies, and managing spectrum allocation can be complex.

Facts

The Starlink constellation currently consists of over 4,500 satellites, with plans for more launches.
SpaceX’s ambitious goal includes providing global internet access and now mobile connectivity.
Elon Musk envisions Starlink as a key enabler for Mars colonization, serving as the backbone of interplanetary communication.

Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service represents a monumental leap in mobile communication. By leveraging its satellite network, SpaceX is making universal connectivity a reality, ensuring that no one is left behind, whether in urban centers or the most remote corners of the Earth. With the promise of future innovations and expansions, this technology is poised to reshape how the world communicates.

References

Starlink Official Website
FCC Public Filings on SpaceX Direct-to-Cell Service
SpaceX Technology News
Global Mobile Connectivity
Digital Divide Statistics

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Satellite Internet Providers

Apple and Starlink’s Life-Saving Role in the Hurricane Helene Emergency

By Jonathan Bala October 1, 2024

Apple and Starlink’s Life-Saving Role in the Hurricane Helene Emergency

Apple’s iOS 18 offers satellite messaging for iPhone 14 or later users during network outages, proving crucial in Hurricane Helene’s aftermath. Starlink’s terminals were deployed to re-establish internet in severely affected areas across the southern United States. The Y’all Group, a nonprofit, played a significant role in deploying communication hardware to rural regions. North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia were some of the worst-hit states, with millions losing power.

Summary

Hurricane Helene left hundreds of thousands without power across multiple states.
Apple iPhone 14 users, through iOS 18’s satellite service, can send messages despite cellular outages.
Starlink’s satellite internet provides emergency communication solutions in the hardest-hit areas.
The Y’all Group, a nonprofit organization, supported locals by delivering communication equipment.
The collaboration of Apple’s satellite technology and Starlink’s services saved countless lives, proving essential in disaster response.
Power outages remain widespread in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and other states.
Emergency services rely on satellite communication to coordinate relief efforts and provide critical aid.

Apple’s Satellite Feature: A Lifeline During Hurricane Helene

When Hurricane Helene made landfall, it brought devastation to the southeastern United States. In its wake, millions were left without power, cellular service, and internet access. While traditional forms of communication were down, Apple’s satellite feature, introduced in iOS 18, became a beacon of hope for many.

Apple’s latest operating system allows iPhone 14 or later users to send messages via satellites. This feature, activated when cellular or WiFi networks are unavailable, has proven life-saving for residents like Matt Van Swol, who took to Twitter to express his gratitude. He said:

I’ve never been more thankful to be an iPhone user.

Due to the lack of cell service, EVERYONE in Asheville NC right now on iOS 18 has been able to get messages out and in with the Satellite messaging feature.

This is literally saving lives @Apple. pic.twitter.com/k0FOIgKlRk

— Matt Van Swol (@matt_vanswol) September 30, 2024

Van Swol was just one of the 400,000 residents in North Carolina facing power and cell service outages. As Hurricane Helene poured torrential rains over the state, traditional communication channels failed, but Apple’s innovation ensured residents remained connected.

The satellite messaging feature in iPhones works by connecting to satellites orbiting the Earth rather than relying on ground-based cell towers or WiFi routers. This allows users in remote or disaster-affected areas to send messages even when traditional communication methods are down.

Residents who had upgraded their iPhones to iOS 18 reported that the satellite messaging feature became available automatically.

Starlink Steps in for Broader Communication

While Apple’s satellite messaging offered a lifeline to individuals with iPhones, Elon Musk’s Starlink took on a larger role by providing internet service to entire communities.
Starlink, a satellite internet service powered by SpaceX, deployed its Starlink terminals to the most affected areas in the southeastern U.S., including Asheville, North Carolina, and beyond.
These terminals allowed residents, emergency services, and disaster relief organizations to restore communication channels, helping to coordinate rescue and relief efforts in real-time.

The Y’all Group: Facilitating Relief with Technology

At the heart of the emergency response was The Y’all Group, a nonprofit organization focused on assisting communities affected by extreme weather events. The group partnered with local officials and volunteers to airlift communication hardware, including Starlink terminals, into the most affected areas.

A Y’all Group volunteer, Ryan Hall, tweeted:

First round of @Starlink terminals are airborne. We're working with local officials to make sure they get to the remote areas that need them as quickly as possible. We're also paying for unlimited data plans for each one. This is one of many things @TheYallSquad is doing thanks… pic.twitter.com/LOfiSjYtS6

— Ryan Hall, Y’all (@ryanhallyall) September 30, 2024

State	Number of Power Outages (in thousands)
South Carolina	672.9
Georgia	521.2
North Carolina	390.1
Virginia	90.0
Florida	89.0

Satellite technology has always been a crucial tool for communication in remote and hard-to-reach areas. However, in recent years, companies like Apple and Starlink have made it more accessible to ordinary citizens, particularly during disasters like Hurricane Helene.
Traditional cellular networks rely on ground-based towers, which are vulnerable to damage from storms, flooding, and power outages. When these systems go down, it can take days or even weeks to restore communication.

In contrast, satellite technology is immune to many of these challenges. By beaming data from space, satellites can bypass the need for ground infrastructure entirely. This makes them an ideal solution for disaster-stricken areas, where other forms of communication are offline.

Apple and Starlink's Life-Saving Role in the Hurricane Helene Emergency — In Horseshoe Beach, Florida, an aerial view shows debris from broken houses. A person who lives in the area spoke to Reuters. They said that hurricanes are the “price you pay for wanting to live on the coast.” However, they also said there comes a time when “enough is enough”. **get more pictures here**

Power Outages and Internet Blackouts

As Hurricane Helene tore through the southern U.S., it left a trail of destruction in its wake, with millions of residents losing power. The lack of electricity also meant that traditional forms of communication, such as WiFi and cellular networks, were disrupted.

According to poweroutage.us, more than 1.7 million customers across several states and territories experienced power outages. South Carolina was the hardest hit, with over 672,000 customers affected. Following closely were Georgia and North Carolina, with 521,000 and 390,000 outages, respectively.

With power out for so many, communication tools like Apple’s satellite messaging and Starlink’s internet service became vital for rescue efforts and to keep families connected. Residents could still send messages and access the internet, even with traditional networks down, thanks to these technologies.

State	Starlink Terminals Deployed
North Carolina	350
South Carolina	450
Georgia	500
Virginia	150
Florida	100

In times of disaster, communication is often a matter of life and death. Families need to reach out to loved ones, emergency responders must coordinate rescues, and aid organizations require real-time information to deploy resources effectively. The combination of Apple’s satellite messaging and Starlink’s internet service provided exactly that during Hurricane Helene.

For those stranded in isolated areas or cut off from cellular service, Apple’s new satellite messaging feature meant the difference between isolation and connection. With the feature’s automatic activation when cellular and WiFi services are down, it became a critical tool for users during the storm.

At the same time, Starlink’s terminals restored internet service to entire neighborhoods and towns. This not only allowed residents to communicate but also enabled rescue teams to better organize relief efforts. The deployment of Starlink terminals, especially in rural and hard-hit areas, was a major factor in re-establishing communication for thousands of people.

A Future of Satellite-Driven Disaster Relief

The success of Apple and Starlink’s technologies during Hurricane Helene is a promising glimpse into the future of disaster response. As natural disasters become more frequent and severe due to climate change, the need for reliable communication systems will only grow.

Satellite technology, thanks to companies like Apple and SpaceX, is quickly becoming the backbone of emergency communication in disaster zones. While cellular towers and WiFi routers remain important, they are vulnerable to destruction during hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. In contrast, satellites offer a resilient, reliable alternative that can be deployed quickly and with minimal infrastructure.

Looking ahead, it’s likely that satellite communication will play an even larger role in disaster response efforts. In fact, emergency services and aid organizations around the world are already investing heavily in satellite technology to ensure that they can stay connected, no matter what.

#HurricaneHelene, #AppleSatellite, #StarlinkInternet, #DisasterRelief, #SatelliteCommunication, #EmergencyResponse, #TechInDisaster, #iPhone14, #TheYallGroup, #SouthEastUSA

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