Overview
AT&T has informed the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that it will lease spectrum to AST SpaceMobile under an immediate contract, pending regulator approval. The company is also considering a long-term partnership aimed at eliminating areas without cell signal.
Recent Developments
This encouraging news follows a successful pilot test conducted two weeks prior, which enabled the first call to a smartphone via a combination of mobile spectrum and satellite services.
Agreement Details
As reported by Fierce, the agreement will involve leasing portions of the spectrum in the 850 MHz cell block A and B, as well as parts of the lower 700 MHz block B and C. Notably, these leases will not be exclusive, and AST SpaceMobile's services will not be utilized in areas where AT&T already provides terrestrial connectivity.
Goals of AST SpaceMobile
AST SpaceMobile aims to ensure broadband Internet access for AT&T customers transparently, meaning no modifications to devices or the need for special chips or additional equipment will be required. Furthermore, this partnership will provide AT&T with an infrastructure safeguard to ensure temporary satellite connectivity during emergencies caused by natural disasters.