Vodafone recently made history by successfully completing the world’s first space-based video call using normal 4G/5G smartphones and satellites. The call was made from a remote area in Wales to Vodafone Group Chief Executive, Margherita Della Valle, marking a significant milestone in the telecommunications industry.
This achievement was made possible through Vodafone’s partnership with AST SpaceMobile, which has developed a satellite technology that offers a full mobile broadband experience without the need for special equipment or satellite phones. This technology paves the way for universal digital connectivity and the closure of mobile coverage gaps, especially in rural and isolated areas.
Astronaut Tim Peake and Margherita Della Valle celebrated this groundbreaking achievement at Vodafone’s new space-to-land gateway in Europe. Vodafone aims to commercially launch a direct-to-smartphone broadband satellite service in Europe later in 2025 and 2026.
The service will seamlessly connect Vodafone’s terrestrial network with satellites in low Earth orbit, providing reliable digital connectivity in areas where traditional mobile networks are unavailable. This will help bridge the digital divide and ensure that people from all corners of Europe can stay connected with family and friends, work, and have reliable connectivity in emergencies.
Vodafone’s investment in AST SpaceMobile and the success of this space-based video call demonstrate the company’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve lives and connect people around the world. This achievement represents a major step forward in the future of telecommunications and the quest for universal connectivity.
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