Vodafone makes first satellite video call on a normal smartphone

Vodafone has revealed that it made the world’s first satellite video call on a normal smartphone. Engineer Rowan Chesmer called Vodafone Group CEO Margherita Della Valle from a remote area in Wales with no cellular coverage.
Chesmer placed the call over the BlueBird satellite owned and operated by Vodafone’s partner, AST SpaceMobile.
This comes after Della Valle and astronaut Tim Peake unveiled the first space-to-land gateway in Europe, which seamlessly connects satellites to Vodafone’s terrestrial network.
“It is the only satellite technology of its kind built to offer a full mobile broadband experience and paves the way for universal digital connectivity and the closure of mobile coverage gaps,” Vodafone said in a statement.
The satellite service offers mobile broadband connectivity to various 4G and 5G smartphone models.
Users don’t need a satellite dish, terminal, or satellite phone to benefit from the direct-to-smartphone broadband satellite service, which Vodafone hopes to offer in Europe in late 2025.
“The service users will receive mirrors the experience of existing 4G and 5G mobile networks, enabling them to use everyday smartphones to switch between space and ground-based networks automatically,” says Vodafone.
Vodafone developed the space-to-land gateway in partnership with AST SpaceMobile. The gateway provides connectivity to the mobile operator’s network.
“Vodafone’s job is to get everyone connected, no matter where they are,” said Della Valle.
“Our advanced European 5G network will now be complemented with cutting-edge satellite technology.”
“This will help close the digital divide, supporting people from all corners of Europe to keep in touch with family and friends, or work, as well as ensuring reliable rural connectivity in an emergency,” she added.
Peake, the first British astronaut to visit the International Space Station and conduct a spacewalk, said the service will provide immense value for Vodafone’s European customers.
“I can fully appreciate the value in being able to communicate with family and friends from remote and isolated locations,” he said.
The low Earth orbit satellite system will be a complementary bolt-on technology for Vodafone customers in Europe, providing coverage where no mobile or fixed alternative currently exists.
“Together, the satellite service and terrestrial network will give Europe a communications infrastructure for use in any location,” said Vodafone.