Telus, TerreStar complete trial of mobile-to-satellite connectivity

MONTREAL — Telus Corp. says it has successfully trialled technology that allows smartphones to send and receive voice calls and text messages using satellites.

The test was conducted in partnership with Montreal-based telecom provider TerreStar Solutions Inc. and non-terrestrial network service provider Skylo.

Telus president and CEO Darren Entwistle says the trial could pave the way to eliminate no-coverage zones, which would keep people in remote regions connected and ensure emergency services remain reachable during outages.

The technology could also be used to improve employee safety in industries that require remote field work and deliver real-time data on temperature and water to farmers.

The Vancouver-based telecommunications company says it hopes to introduce smartphones with 5G satellite capabilities to customers next year.

Earlier this year, Rogers Communications Inc. announced it was partnering with SpaceX and Lynk Global to deliver satellite-to-phone connectivity, enabling coverage for texting and eventually voice and data access in areas such as national parks and rural highways.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 1, 2023.

Companies in this story: (TSX:T, TSX:RCI.B)

The Canadian Press