Focus: Telecom

T-Mobile is preparing to start beta testing with SpaceX’s Starlink direct-to-cell satellite service in early 2025 and opened registration on Monday for a limited number of slots to participate in...

AST SpaceMobile has signed a commercial agreement with its longtime investor Vodafone Group that lasts through 2034. This agreement establishes the framework for Vodafone to offer space-based cellular broadband connectivity...

The FCC gave SpaceX approval to operate satellite direct-to-cellular service with T-Mobile in an order released Nov. 26.  This is the FCC’s first instance of approving supplemental coverage from space...

Working together, Deutsche Telekom, Qualcomm, and Skylo completed a trial to send a text message over a Geostationary (GEO) satellite, the companies announced Tuesday. The proof-of-concept was conducted in Greece...

Apple is doubling down on its partnership with Globalstar, investing $1.5 billion to fund a new constellation for expanded satellite services.  Apple will pay Globalstar up to $1.1 billion to...

As the direct-to-device space picked up steam in 2024 with demonstrations and new partnerships with mobile network operators and device manufacturers, the business model is still being worked out.  Industry...

French startup Constellation Technologies & Operations has raised 9.3 million euros ($10 million) to move forward on its plans for a satellite broadband constellation in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO). ...

In late August, Verizon was the latest big name telco to team up with a satellite player for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity. Verizon announced a deal with Skylo to launch a...

Korea Telecom (KT), one of the largest telcos in Asia, has concluded a successful 5G NTN (non-terrestrial network) trial that brings satellite more into the mainstream in South Korea and...

DirecTV is acquiring EchoStar‘s video distribution business, including Dish TV and Sling TV. EchoStar said this move refocuses the company’s portfolio on wireless and satellite connectivity markets.  The deal brings...