Rogers Signs Agreement With SpaceX to Bring Satellite-to-Phone Coverage to Canada

Rhea-AI Summary

Rogers Communications has partnered with SpaceX to launch a satellite-to-phone service across Canada, expanding connectivity to remote areas currently lacking traditional networks. This innovative service, utilizing SpaceX's Starlink satellites, will initially support SMS text services with plans to include voice and data coverage in the future. The initiative aims to improve public safety by ensuring access to vital services like 911 in distant regions. Rogers, a leader in 5G spectrum investment, will harness its national wireless spectrum to implement this technology nationwide. This venture is part of Rogers' broader commitment to enhance connectivity through significant investments, including the expansion of its 5G network and merging with Shaw.

Positive

• Partnership with SpaceX enables satellite-to-phone coverage, expanding services to remote regions.
• Initial SMS support with plans for voice and data services enhances communication options.
• Aims to improve public safety with enhanced 911 access in unconnected areas.
• Rogers' significant investment in 5G spectrum positions it as a leader in wireless technology.

Negative

• None.

First wireless company in Canada to bring satellite connectivity to Canadians coast to coast 

Companies will deliver new service to connect 5G and 4G phones in remote areas without networks

TORONTO, April 26, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rogers Communications Inc. and SpaceX today announced the companies have agreed to bring satellite-to-phone coverage nation-wide to ensure Canadians stay connected in areas beyond the limits of traditional wireless networks. 

Rogers and SpaceX will offer satellite-to-phone technology in Canada using SpaceX’s Starlink low earth orbit satellites and Rogers national wireless spectrum. The companies plan to start with satellite coverage for SMS text and will eventually provide voice and data across the country’s most remote wilderness, national parks and rural highways that are unconnected today. 

“As the country’s biggest investor in 5G spectrum with Canada’s largest 5G network, Rogers is proud to work with SpaceX to expand wireless coverage across all of Canada, from coast to coast, to keep Canadians connected and safe,” said Tony Staffieri, President and CEO, Rogers. “In the future, these investments will deliver wireless connectivity, including access to 911, to even the most remote areas.”

“As a Canadian, I’m excited that SpaceX is collaborating with Rogers to bring SpaceX’s Direct to Cell service to Canadians.  I’m proud of the impact this will have across the country wherever Canadians may work, play or travel,” said Sara Spangelo, co-lead for Direct to Cell at SpaceX. 

Once commercially available, satellite-to-phone coverage will work with all 5G and 4G smartphones. The coverage will support SMS and MMS text, and help all Canadians reach 911 as first responders and emergency services upgrade their systems for emergency SMS texting.

Rogers is committed to improving public safety through its national network investments. This includes the company’s commitment to bring wireless service and 911 access throughout the entire Toronto subway system for all TTC riders and extend wireless coverage along Canada’s remote highways.

Today’s announcement builds on the company’s investment to bring Canadians the largest 5G wireless network covering more than 2,000 communities. Through its transformative merger with Shaw, Rogers now brings Canadians a national coast to coast wireline network with fibre-powered internet available to nearly 70% of Canadian households. 

Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information
This news release includes “forward‐looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. We caution that forward‐looking information is inherently subject to change and uncertainty and that actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward‐looking information. A comprehensive discussion of risks associated with forward-looking information can be found in Rogers’ public reports and filings which are available under its profile at www.sedar.com.

About Rogers

Rogers is Canada’s leading wireless, cable and media company that provides connectivity and entertainment to Canadian consumers and businesses across the country. Rogers shares are publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: RCI.A and RCI.B) and on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RCI). For more information, please visit: rogers.com or investors.rogers.com.

About Starlink by SpaceX

Starlink delivers high-speed, low-latency internet to users all over the world. As the world's first and largest satellite constellation using a low Earth orbit, Starlink delivers broadband internet capable of supporting streaming, online gaming, video calls and more. Starlink is engineered and operated by SpaceX.  As the world’s leading provider of launch services, SpaceX is leveraging its deep experience with both spacecraft and on-orbit operations to deploy the world’s most advanced broadband internet system, as well as a Direct to Cell constellation of satellites to provide connectivity directly to unmodified LTE cell phones.

For further information: 

media@rci.rogers.com
1-844-226-1338 

FAQ

What is the new satellite-to-phone service offered by RCI?

RCI has partnered with SpaceX to provide nationwide satellite-to-phone connectivity for remote areas in Canada, starting with SMS text services.

How will the new service improve public safety in Canada?

The service will enable access to 911 in remote areas, ensuring that emergency services can reach more Canadians.

When will the satellite-to-phone service be available to Canadians?

The launch date for the satellite-to-phone service has not been specified yet, but it is expected to be commercially available soon.

What technology will Rogers use for satellite connectivity?

Rogers will use SpaceX's Starlink low Earth orbit satellites in conjunction with its national wireless spectrum.

How does this partnership position Rogers in the telecommunications market?

This partnership solidifies Rogers' status as a leading provider of enhanced wireless connectivity, expanding its coverage significantly.