The competition in satellite signal services has intensified following T-Mobile’s launch of its Starlink-powered T-Satellite service on July 23. T-Mobile made headlines with its bold marketing strategy, playfully chastising competitors like Verizon for their limited satellite capabilities and poking fun at AT&T, implying that their customers are still “searching the skies for signs of life.”
In response, AT&T has chosen a more understated approach. Their statement, titled “AT&T Satellite Solutions – Stay Connected. Everywhere,” highlights their extensive wireless coverage without directly mentioning T-Mobile.
AT&T boasts the largest wireless network in North America, reaching over 99% of the U.S. population and encompassing nearly 3 million square miles. For areas lacking coverage, they are collaborating with AST SpaceMobile to provide satellite-based communication through standard mobile devices integrated seamlessly with AT&T’s core network. Noteworthy in AT&T’s announcement was a significant breakthrough on July 21 regarding the successful transmission of native VoLTE and SMS messages via AST’s Block 1 satellites using standard phones on their network. This achievement demonstrates a sophisticated level of integration between satellite and cellular services, suggesting AT&T may have reserved this information to respond appropriately to T-Mobile’s launch.
Additionally, AT&T highlighted its past milestones, including facilitating two-way voice calls and satellite-based video communications over its network, and successful tests supporting emergency services with FirstNet. As the satellite service battle unfolds, it appears AT&T has positioned itself strongly, leaving Verizon to navigate its next strategic move in this rapidly evolving landscape. As it stands, the competition now looks increasingly like a race between T-Mobile and AT&T, with each company striving to outpace the other in innovation.
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