Verizon completes its first satellite to cellular enabled video call with AST SpaceMobile BlueBird 2

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon (VZ) has successfully completed its first satellite-to-cellular video call between two mobile devices, with one connected via satellite and the other through Verizon's terrestrial network. This breakthrough follows recent FCC approval allowing AST SpaceMobile to test using Verizon's spectrum in the United States with their first five commercial BlueBird satellites in low Earth orbit.

The initiative aims to complement Verizon's existing network, which currently reaches over 99% of the US population, by enabling seamless data transmissions, including texts, voice calls, video chats, and file sharing in areas without terrestrial cellular coverage. This satellite-to-device network development represents a significant advancement in providing reliable connectivity in remote locations.

The testing authorization covers voice, full data, video applications, and other native cellular capabilities using smartphones connected to AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird satellites. Verizon, which generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024, continues to expand its service capabilities to meet customer demands for mobility and reliable network connectivity.

Positive

• Successfully demonstrated first-ever satellite-to-cellular video call capability
• Received FCC approval for testing with AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird satellites
• Expanding network coverage beyond current 99% US population reach
• Revenue of $134.8 billion in 2024

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction – VZ

+1.31%

1 alert

+1.31% News Effect

On the day this news was published, VZ gained 1.31%, reflecting a mild positive market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

MIDLAND, Texas, Feb. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Verizon and AST have yet again pushed the boundaries of what can be done with mobile devices by successfully trialing a live video call between two mobile devices with one connected via satellite and the other connected via Verizon’s terrestrial network connection. The breadth, depth, and performance of Verizon’s exemplary network which reaches more than 99% of the US population meets the vast majority of current wireless communications needs. However, Verizon has been driving communications innovations by incorporating satellite links into its network. To complement Verizon’s industry-leading network coverage, Verizon and AST are building the fastest satellite to device network with text, voice and live video calling capability. This video call demonstration is a significant step forward.

“This breakthrough marks a new era in cellular to satellite connectivity in the United States that enables seamless data transmissions – not just texts - in the rare instance a terrestrial cellular network is not available,” said Hans Vestberg, Chairman and CEO of Verizon. “Adding this layer of ability – not only to text someone, but to be able to call, video chat, or send files - whether in the wilderness, or in a remote part of a lake community, will only enhance the reliability of our customers' connectivity and communication experience.”

"Our team has worked tirelessly to develop a satellite to device data connection for consumers to power their lives. We are relentlessly focused on providing the most reliable network experience for our customers where they live, work and play, and providing this added layer of reliability is another reason our customers trust us to keep them connected wherever life takes them,” said Joe Russo, EVP & President, Global Network and Technology, Verizon.

This first video call demonstration is a result of the recent approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to AST SpaceMobile authorizing testing using Verizon’s spectrum in the United States. This approval enables AST SpaceMobile’s first five commercial BlueBird satellites, operating in low Earth orbit today, to test satellite connections with smartphones supporting voice, full data and video applications, and other native cellular capabilities.

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Karen Schulz
864.561.1527
Karen.schulz@verizonwireless.com

FAQ

What milestone did Verizon (VZ) achieve with AST SpaceMobile in February 2024?

Verizon completed its first successful satellite-to-cellular video call between two mobile devices using AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird 2 satellite technology.

How many BlueBird satellites does AST SpaceMobile currently have in orbit for VZ testing?

AST SpaceMobile currently has five commercial BlueBird satellites operating in low Earth orbit for testing with Verizon's spectrum.

What capabilities will VZ's satellite-to-cellular service include?

The service will include text messaging, voice calls, video chatting, and file sharing capabilities in areas without traditional cellular coverage.

What was Verizon's (VZ) revenue in 2024?

Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024.

What percentage of the US population does VZ's current network cover?

Verizon's current terrestrial network reaches more than 99% of the US population.