AST SpaceMobile is getting ready to turn on its new nationwide intermittent satellite phone service across the United States before the end of 2026. The company recently shared this timeline along with its third quarter money updates, showing steady steps toward its big coverage goals. With strong backing and recent tests going well, the Texas based business is making big moves to connect normal cell phones in places where regular cell towers just cannot reach.
Major network partners help bring satellite coverage to smartphones
The satellite company is working closely with big wireless networks to make space based cell service a reality. In the United States, AST SpaceMobile signed direct deals with AT&T and Verizon to handle the ground connections. This setup means people will not need to buy any new gear or special satellite phones to stay online when they travel far out of town.
Just last week, the companies pulled off a successful beam handover between the ground network and the space network. This is a major test to rival SpaceX service offerings in the growing space internet market. The next big step for these carrier partners is to try out a beta service in the real world before opening it up to everyone.
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The company decides to build its own reusable launch vehicles
AST SpaceMobile is changing how it gets its satellites into orbit by making its own 20 ton reusable rocket called Blacklift. Company leaders decided to take on this huge project so they can have more control over when and how they launch. Waiting for other companies to have open space on their launch pads has caused some schedule slips in the past.
Here are some details of the upcoming satellite launches:
- The next batch of three satellites is currently waiting for SpaceX to give them a confirmed launch date.
- Another three satellites will ship out soon for a Blue Origin flight expected early next year.
- The company has deals in place for 100 different satellite launches running through 2028.
- By building its own rockets, the business hopes to compete better against Starlink and its fast launch speeds.
Recent financial results show steady spending and clear revenue goals
During the third quarter, the company reported $42.3 million in revenue. While this number was a bit lower than what some market watchers guessed, leadership kept their full year revenue goal set between $150 million and $200 million. Hitting this target depends mostly on upcoming equipment deliveries and a large government contract with the United States Space Force.
The push for global cell connection is catching the attention of tech companies everywhere. While software giants like Google and Meta mostly work on apps and internet access programs, AST SpaceMobile is spending heavily on actual space hardware. If the firm can stick to its new plans, people in rural areas could finally see good communication options very soon.
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