Vodafone makes uninterrupted mobile connectivity in space a reality

Vodafone has conducted the world's first space video call using 4G and 5G-compatible phones from a region with no coverage. This historic step was made possible through a project Vodafone realized in collaboration with AST SpaceMobile. The project aims to provide solutions to global connectivity issues by bringing the mobile broadband experience to space.

NO SPECIAL HARDWARE REQUIRED, CONNECTION POSSIBLE WITH EXISTING PHONES

This new technology developed by Vodafone provides uninterrupted connectivity to users without the need for special antennas, terminals, or expensive satellite phones. Automatic switching between space and ground-based networks can be performed using everyday 4G and 5G-compatible phones. In this way, broadband connectivity becomes possible even in rural areas that traditional mobile networks cannot reach.

THE FIRST SPACE VIDEO CALL TO MAKE HISTORY

Vodafone conducted the first space video call via BlueBird satellites, which provide mobile broadband communication from space, in a remote mountainous region of Wales. The call, made by Vodafone engineer Rowan Chesmer, marks a historic moment in the technology world. Vodafone Group CEO Margherita Della Valle and famous astronaut Tim Peake celebrated this development.

Margherita Della Valle said, “Our goal at Vodafone is to provide uninterrupted connectivity to all our users. In addition to Europe’s advanced 5G network, we will continue to offer the best service to our users with our latest satellite technology. This new technology will bridge the digital divide, expand communication opportunities, and provide reliable connectivity in rural areas.”

FIRST SATELLITE-BASED CONNECTION TEST SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED IN TURKEY

Vodafone Turkey also successfully conducted the first voice call and SMS tests via satellite in Turkey using this new technology. The test, carried out in a rural area between Bolu and Düzce with no coverage, was completed with standard 4G and 5G phones without the need for any additional device or software. This test is considered an important development worldwide, in addition to being a first for Turkey.

UNINTERRUPTED CONNECTION FROM SPACE TO GROUND

AST SpaceMobile CEO Abel Avellan emphasized that they have achieved a series of world firsts together with Vodafone: "We previously performed the first space-based voice call, the first 4G download speed over 10 Mbps, and the first 5G voice call. At the point we have reached today, we have come one step closer to the goal of making mobile broadband accessible to everyone."

The BlueBird satellites located in Low Earth Orbit will operate as an extension of Vodafone's ground-based networks and will provide 4G and 5G broadband connectivity even in areas without coverage. The new satellite technology will strengthen communication infrastructure in rural areas, seas, and mountainous regions, and will play a life-saving role in emergency situations.