Rogers Launches Satellite-to-Mobile Service in Canada

Rhea-AI Summary

Rogers (NYSE:RCI) has launched Rogers Satellite, a groundbreaking satellite-to-mobile text messaging service that expands the company's coverage to over 5.4 million square kilometers - 2.5 times more than any other Canadian wireless carrier.

The service is initially launching as a free beta trial, supporting text messaging and text-to-911. After the beta period ends in October, it will be included in the Rogers Ultimate Plan or available to all Canadians for $15/month, with early beta participants receiving a $5/month discount for 12 months.

The technology utilizes low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites combined with Rogers' national wireless spectrum, working on most modern smartphones. The company plans to expand the service to support apps, data, and voice services, including 911 voice capabilities.

Positive

• Expands coverage to over 5.4 million square kilometers, 2.5x more than competitors
• Free beta trial period with subsequent $5/month discount for 12 months for early adopters
• No additional cost for Rogers Ultimate Plan customers
• Compatible with most modern smartphones without specialized equipment
• Future expansion planned for apps, data, and voice services

Negative

• Service initially limited to text messaging and text-to-911 only
• Requires outdoor use with clear sky visibility
• $15/month additional cost for non-Ultimate Plan customers after beta

News Market Reaction

+0.54%

1 alert

+0.54% News Effect

On the day this news was published, RCI gained 0.54%, reflecting a mild positive market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

First wireless provider to offer next generation technology to all Canadians
Invites all Canadians to join the beta at no cost
Covers 2.5 times more square kms than any other Canadian wireless carrier
Automatically connects your phone in areas without cell service

TORONTO, July 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rogers launched today Rogers Satellite, a new satellite-to-mobile text messaging service to all Canadians. With Rogers Satellite, Rogers now covers over 5.4 million square kilometers - that’s over 2.5 times more than any other Canadian wireless service provider.

“We’re proud to introduce this ground-breaking technology to help Canadians stay safe and connected in more places,” said Tony Staffieri, President and CEO, Rogers. “Earlier this month Rogers celebrated the 40^th anniversary of the first wireless call in Canada, and this new technology represents the next big leap in wireless connectivity. We’re proud to continue our legacy of innovative firsts and to connect Canadians in more places.”

Rogers Satellite Free Beta Trial available to all Canadians​
Starting today, all Canadians can sign up to use Rogers Satellite beta trial at no cost. Rogers Satellite will initially support text messaging and text-to-911 and will expand to support apps, data and voice services, including 911 voice services.

Once the beta trial ends in October, Rogers Satellite will be included at no additional cost to customers on the Rogers Ultimate Plan and will also be available for all Canadians for $15/month. Canadians participating in the beta trial will receive a $5/month discount for the first 12 months. For more information about the beta trial, visit rogers.com/satellite.

“We continually invest to bring Canadians the best networks and the most coverage,” said Mark Kennedy, Chief Technology Officer. “Now, with Rogers mobile spectrum paired with satellite technology, Canadians can turn their smartphone into a satellite phone to stay connected and access text-to-911 in some of the most remote parts of Canada.”

Expands coverage in rural and remote areas
Only 18 per cent of the country is covered by traditional wireless networks. With this new technology, Rogers now covers over 5.4 million square kilometres within Canada, over 2.5 times more than any other wireless carrier.​

When connected to Rogers Satellite, customers can send a text to friends in the Rocky Mountains, text 911 if stranded on a remote highway or connect with friends and family on the southern shores of Hudson Bay or the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

Automatically connects your phone in areas without cell service
Rogers Satellite uses low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites and Rogers national wireless spectrum. Wireless spectrum ensures this technology works on most modern smartphones. The company will continue to test and optimize Rogers Satellite services throughout the beta trial.

Build on legacy of innovative firsts​
Rogers has invested $45 billion to deliver a series of wireless firsts for Canadians over the past 40 years. 1G introduced voice calls, 2G added texting, and 3G offered email and the Internet. 4G brought the smartphone and with it, the on-demand economy, and 5G has unlocked even faster speeds, lower latency and a new era of innovation. ​Today, Rogers is ranked as Canada’s most reliable 5G+ network.​

Rogers Satellite is available outside, including on bodies of water, where you can see the sky. For coverage areas, see coverage map.

Quotes
“BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) welcomes Rogers new satellite-to-mobile service as a significant advancement for public safety and emergency response in BC’s remote areas. The ability to send text messages, including text-to-911, during the initial rollout from areas without traditional coverage, represents a crucial step forward for search and rescue operations. Improved backcountry connectivity enhances both responder coordination and public safety.” Chris Mushumanski, President, BCSARA

"Rogers Satellite is a game changer for public safety in Alberta. For the first time, people in remote areas will have direct access to emergency services without needing specialized equipment. This advancement improves our ability to respond faster and more effectively, ultimately saving lives and enhancing the safety of both the public and our SAR volunteers. We fully support this important step forward." Brian Carriere, President, Search and Rescue Association of Alberta

"This is a welcomed step forward in closing the digital divide for Northwestern Ontario. Reliable connectivity is not a luxury — it's a necessity for safety, economic growth, and community wellbeing. On behalf of NOMA and the 37 municipalities we represent, I commend Rogers for investing in technology that brings much-needed service to our rural and remote communities. This satellite-to-mobile service is a positive stride toward ensuring no one is left behind in today’s digital world.” Rick Dumas, President, Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA)

About Rogers Communications Inc.
Rogers is Canada’s leading communications and entertainment company and its shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For more information, please visit rogers.com or investors.rogers.com.

For more information:
Media
media@rci.rogers.com
1-844-226-1338

FAQ

What is Rogers Satellite and when will it launch in Canada?

Rogers Satellite is a new satellite-to-mobile text messaging service launched on July 15, 2025, providing coverage across 5.4 million square kilometers in Canada through LEO satellites and Rogers' wireless spectrum.

How much does Rogers Satellite service cost?

The service is initially free during the beta trial. After October 2025, it will be included in the Rogers Ultimate Plan or available for $15/month, with beta participants receiving a $5/month discount for 12 months.

What features are available with Rogers (RCI) new satellite service?

Initially, the service supports text messaging and text-to-911. Future expansions will include support for apps, data, and voice services, including 911 voice capabilities.

Where does Rogers Satellite service work?

The service works in outdoor areas with clear sky visibility, including remote locations and bodies of water, covering over 5.4 million square kilometers within Canada.

What phones are compatible with Rogers Satellite service?

The service works with most modern smartphones through Rogers' wireless spectrum, requiring no specialized equipment.