Verizon conquers remaining Dead Zones through Satellite with help of Test Man and Buzz Aldrin
Verizon (VZ) is expanding its network coverage through satellite technology partnerships. The FCC has authorized Verizon and AST to test satellite-to-phone connections for voice, data, and video applications. The company is collaborating with Skylo for satellite messaging features and has formed a $100 million strategic partnership with AST SpaceMobile to provide direct-to-cellular service.
The initiative includes AST's first five commercial BlueBird satellites in low Earth orbit, which will test connections with Verizon smartphones without requiring specialized software. Verizon currently operates nearly 300 satellite-based portable network assets for emergency situations and utilizes satellite connections for cell sites in remote areas where fiber infrastructure is unavailable.
The company reported revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024 and claims to cover more than 99% of where people live, work, and play. The satellite expansion aims to eliminate remaining coverage gaps in remote locations.
Verizon (VZ) sta espandendo la sua copertura di rete attraverso partnership tecnologiche satellitari. La FCC ha autorizzato Verizon e AST a testare connessioni satellite-telefoniche per applicazioni vocali, dati e video. L'azienda sta collaborando con Skylo per funzionalità di messaggistica satellitare e ha formato una partnership strategica da 100 milioni di dollari con AST SpaceMobile per fornire un servizio diretto agli cellulari.
L'iniziativa include i primi cinque satelliti commerciali BlueBird di AST in orbita terrestre bassa, che testeranno le connessioni con gli smartphone Verizon senza richiedere software specializzato. Verizon attualmente gestisce quasi 300 risorse di rete portatili basate su satellite per situazioni di emergenza e utilizza connessioni satellitari per i siti cellulari in aree remote dove l'infrastruttura in fibra non è disponibile.
L'azienda ha riportato ricavi di 134,8 miliardi di dollari nel 2024 e afferma di coprire più del 99% delle aree in cui le persone vivono, lavorano e si divertono. L'espansione satellitare mira a eliminare i restanti gap di copertura nelle località remote.
Verizon (VZ) está expandiendo su cobertura de red a través de asociaciones tecnológicas satelitales. La FCC ha autorizado a Verizon y AST a probar conexiones de satélite a teléfono para aplicaciones de voz, datos y video. La compañía está colaborando con Skylo para funciones de mensajería satelital y ha formado una asociación estratégica de 100 millones de dólares con AST SpaceMobile para proporcionar servicio directo a celulares.
La iniciativa incluye los primeros cinco satélites comerciales BlueBird de AST en órbita baja terrestre, que probarán conexiones con los teléfonos inteligentes de Verizon sin necesidad de software especializado. Verizon opera actualmente casi 300 activos de red portátiles basados en satélite para situaciones de emergencia y utiliza conexiones satelitales para sitios celulares en áreas remotas donde la infraestructura de fibra no está disponible.
La compañía reportó ingresos de 134.8 mil millones de dólares en 2024 y afirma cubrir más del 99% de donde las personas viven, trabajan y juegan. La expansión satelital tiene como objetivo eliminar las brechas de cobertura restantes en ubicaciones remotas.
버라이즌 (VZ)은 위성 기술 파트너십을 통해 네트워크 범위를 확장하고 있습니다. FCC는 버라이즌과 AST가 음성, 데이터 및 비디오 애플리케이션을 위한 위성-전화 연결을 테스트할 수 있도록 승인을 부여했습니다. 이 회사는 위성 메시징 기능을 위해 Skylo와 협력하고 있으며, AST SpaceMobile과의 1억 달러 전략적 파트너십을 체결하여 셀룰러 서비스 제공을 위해 노력하고 있습니다.
이 이니셔티브는 저지구 궤도에 있는 AST의 첫 다섯 개 상업적 BlueBird 위성을 포함하며, 전문 소프트웨어 없이도 Verizon 스마트폰과의 연결을 테스트할 것입니다. 현재 버라이즌은 비상 상황을 위해 거의 300개의 위성 기반 이동 통신 네트워크 자산을 운영하고 있으며, 섬과 같은 외딴 지역의 셀 사이트에 위성 연결을 사용하고 있습니다.
회사는 2024년에 1,348억 달러의 수익을 보고하며, 사람들이 거주하고 일하며 놀고 있는 장소의 99% 이상을 커버한다고 주장합니다. 위성 확장은 외딴 지역의 남아 있는 커버리지 격차를 해소하는 것을 목표로 합니다.
Verizon (VZ) étend sa couverture réseau grâce à des partenariats technologiques satellitaires. La FCC a autorisé Verizon et AST à tester des connexions satellite-téléphone pour des applications vocales, de données et vidéo. L'entreprise collabore avec Skylo pour des fonctionnalités de messagerie par satellite et a formé un partenariat stratégique de 100 millions de dollars avec AST SpaceMobile pour fournir un service direct aux cellulaires.
L'initiative comprend les cinq premiers satellites commerciaux BlueBird d'AST en orbite terrestre basse, qui testeront les connexions avec les smartphones Verizon sans nécessiter de logiciel spécialisé. Actuellement, Verizon exploite près de 300 ressources de réseau mobile basées sur satellite pour des situations d'urgence et utilise des connexions satellitaires pour des sites cellulaires dans des zones éloignées où l'infrastructure en fibre est indisponible.
L'entreprise a rapporté des revenus de 134,8 milliards de dollars en 2024 et affirme couvrir plus de 99% des endroits où les gens vivent, travaillent et se divertissent. L'expansion satellitaire vise à éliminer les lacunes de couverture restantes dans des endroits éloignés.
Verizon (VZ) erweitert sein Netzwerk durch Partnerschaften im Bereich Satellitentechnologie. Die FCC hat Verizon und AST die Genehmigung erteilt, Verbindungen von Satellit zu Telefon für Sprach-, Daten- und Videoanwendungen zu testen. Das Unternehmen arbeitet mit Skylo an satellitengestützten Messaging-Funktionen zusammen und hat eine strategische Partnerschaft im Wert von 100 Millionen Dollar mit AST SpaceMobile gegründet, um einen Direktservice für Handys anzubieten.
In der Initiative sind die ersten fünf kommerziellen BlueBird-Satelliten von AST in niedriger Erdumlaufbahn enthalten, die Verbindungen mit Verizon-Smartphones testen werden, ohne dass spezielle Software erforderlich ist. Verizon betreibt derzeit fast 300 satellitenbasierte mobile Netzwerkressourcen für Notfälle und nutzt Satellitenverbindungen für Mobilstandorte in abgelegenen Gebieten, in denen keine Glasfaserinfrastruktur vorhanden ist.
Das Unternehmen berichtete über Einnahmen von 134,8 Milliarden Dollar im Jahr 2024 und gibt an, mehr als 99% der Gebiete abzudecken, in denen Menschen leben, arbeiten und spielen. Die satellitengestützte Erweiterung zielt darauf ab, verbleibende Deckungslücken in abgelegenen Gegenden zu schließen.
- Strategic $100M partnership with AST SpaceMobile enhances network coverage
- FCC approval obtained for testing satellite-to-phone connections
- Network coverage exceeds 99% of populated areas
- Strong revenue performance of $134.8B in 2024
- Deployment of 300 satellite-based portable network assets for emergency coverage
- None.
Insights
Verizon's satellite connectivity strategy marks a pivotal shift in telecommunications infrastructure, presenting significant implications for investors. The
The business impact is multifaceted:
- Enhanced service reliability through 300 satellite-based assets strengthens Verizon's competitive moat in emergency response and remote coverage
- Direct-to-cellular capability without specialized hardware reduces implementation costs and accelerates market adoption
- Rapid deployment potential in remote areas provides first-mover advantage in underserved markets
- Strategic partnerships with AST SpaceMobile and Skylo diversify technology risk while maintaining control over service delivery
This infrastructure enhancement could drive revenue growth through reduced churn in rural markets and new service offerings. The initiative aligns with Verizon's
The strategic significance of Verizon's satellite initiative extends beyond mere coverage expansion. This move represents a sophisticated market positioning strategy that addresses multiple business objectives:
- Market differentiation through unique service offerings in previously unreachable areas
- Operational efficiency through rapid deployment capabilities compared to traditional infrastructure
- Risk mitigation by diversifying network delivery methods
- Competitive advantage in emergency response and mission-critical communications
The investment carries strategic weight beyond the immediate
FCC authorizes Verizon and AST to test satellite to cell phone voice, full data and video applications
NEW YORK, Jan. 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Verizon is pushing the boundaries of satellite and terrestrial telecommunications convergence. Satellites are no longer reserved for the extraordinary—they are woven into the everyday, and are being used to help connect and power customers’ lives.
A lot has changed since 2014 when Verizon’s famous test man roamed the country asking “Can you hear me now?” Now he’s back, and reaching the limits of space with the help of American icon and astronaut Buzz Aldrin. They’re partnering to show how America’s largest network just got better.
“Fifty-six years ago I was one of the select few that made it into Space and the first team to help America conquer the moon,” said Buzz Aldrin, General USAF, Doctor of Astronautics. “Back then, Space was the great unknown, and now we’ve never been closer to it. I can’t look up in the sky without seeing a satellite fly by. It’s remarkable to see how far the human race - and technology - has come.”
“It’s been 10 years since I last asked America “Can you hear me now?,” said Paul Marcarelli, the Original Verizon Test Man. “Back then dead zones were everywhere and it’s safe to say today they are only in the most remote places like the dark side of the moon. Verizon’s always been on a mission to give its customers the very best experience, anticipate their changing needs and drive innovation. Satellite is for sure the next frontier.”
Freedom to message anywhere with satellite-power.
Verizon engineers are relentlessly focused on providing the most reliable network experience for customers. Verizon’s network covers more than
Satellites play a crucial role in making connectivity with Verizon even more reliable, enabling text messaging in the few areas where traditional terrestrial-based cellular networks might not reach. Here’s how:
- Customers with select devices have access to satellite messaging features to enhance connectivity in areas without cellular coverage, allowing customers to send an emergency SOS message and provide their location.
- Verizon is collaborating with Skylo to make satellite messaging features and location detection available for customers with select Android devices.
- And recently, AST SpaceMobile and Verizon announced a strategic partnership with a commitment of
$100 million from Verizon, to provide direct-to-cellular AST SpaceMobile service when needed for Verizon customers. The combination of Verizon’s highly reliable terrestrial mobile network, use of the multi-operator 850 Mhz band and AST’s commercial satellite array in low Earth orbit, is planned to enable cellular consumers to stay connected wherever they are, anywhere in the continental United States.
This week, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted AST Special Temporary Authority (STA) authorizing beta service in the United States. This approval enables AST SpaceMobile’s first five commercial BlueBird satellites, operating in low Earth orbit today, to test satellite connections with Verizon smartphones supporting voice, full data and video applications, and other native cellular capabilities, without the need of any specialized software or device support or update.
Satellites provide reliable service in emergency situations.
Verizon utilizes nearly 300 satellite-based portable network assets to ensure connectivity where fiber cables are unavailable or compromised. These assets provide temporary network access for first responders and in areas with limited permanent infrastructure, or for linking cell sites to the broader network when fiber cables are compromised due to power outages or physical damage.
Satellite connections speed up delivery of service to customers in remote areas.
Verizon uses satellite connections as backhaul for cell sites in remote areas (like forests and mountain tops) where traditional wired connections like fiber are not yet available. Satellite connections can be set up quickly compared to laying fiber, particularly in areas with significant geographical or logistical barriers. This rapid deployment is a useful solution while fiber optics is being planned and deployed. This allows cell sites to be operational and provide service while waiting for the installation of a more robust and high-capacity connection.
* "Largest network" based on total postpaid phone connections publicly reported by Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T during the third quarter of 2024.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of
VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Karen Schulz
864.561.1527
Karen.schulz@verizonwireless.com
FAQ
What is Verizon's (VZ) new satellite partnership with AST SpaceMobile worth?
How many satellite-based portable network assets does Verizon (VZ) currently operate?
What was Verizon's (VZ) revenue in 2024?
What percentage of population areas does Verizon's (VZ) network currently cover?
How many BlueBird satellites will AST SpaceMobile use for Verizon's (VZ) satellite testing?
