At&t inches closer to satellite beta, challenging t-mobile's lead
The race for satellite connectivity heats up
AT&T and AST SpaceMobile partnered in mid-2024 to bring satellite connectivity to customers. While progress seemed slow initially, things are starting to shift. AT&T is now claiming to be closer than ever to launching a beta program, subtly suggesting their approach will surpass T-Mobile’s, which debuted its satellite service last July. This development highlights a growing competition in the space-based connectivity arena.
Bluebird 7: a key milestone
A significant step forward came this week with AST SpaceMobile handing over itsBlueBird 7 (BB7) satellite to Blue Origin. This handover paves the way for launch into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The BB7 boasts a denser antenna array than competing satellites, promising broader coverage, improved connectivity, and notably, faster speeds. AST SpaceMobile claims peak data rates reaching 120 Mbps – a substantial jump compared to what T-Mobile currently offers.
Ast spacemobile’s ambitious goals and challenges
AST SpaceMobile is positioning itself as a rival to SpaceX’s Starlink Direct to Cell, the technology powering T-Mobile’s service. While SpaceX has a considerable head start with over 650 satellites in orbit, AST aims to deploy 45 to 60 satellites this year. However, the company has faced challenges in meeting its targets; they initially aimed for five launches in Q1 but have only launched one BlueBird 6 satellite so far.
Expert skepticism and verizon’s role
Tim Farrar, a satellite analyst and president of TMF Associates, expresses skepticism about AST's ability to deliver continuous US coverage this year. The number of satellites deployed is crucial, impacting not only AST’s coverage but also the launch plans of other partners, including Verizon. AT&T had previously indicated a beta program launch in the first half of the year but hasn't released a commercial timeline.
Speed vs. practicality: will faster speeds matter?
The larger communications array on the BlueBird satellite could potentially give AT&T an edge by delivering broadband speeds to smartphones. However, users in dead zones typically prioritize basic connectivity over blazing-fast speeds. Furthermore, most users spend the majority of their time in areas with terrestrial coverage, diminishing the appeal of high-speed satellite connections. Ultimately, the practical benefit for consumers remains to be seen.
Infrastructure buildout and beta testing
AT&T is actively building the necessary infrastructure to support this new service, including the deployment of ground gateways to connect the satellites to its existing network. The company plans a beta program for select customers, but a precise launch date is still pending. The success of this venture hinges on AST SpaceMobile's ability to consistently launch satellites and deliver on its ambitious promises.