It makes cellphones a better tool in the backcountry and on the water.

On Sept. 9, Rogers announced the expansion of its satellite service to more remote areas, including along the coastline and on bodies of water, such as Howe Sound and the Georgia Strait.

The technology, which uses Starlink satellites, is the first of its kind in Canada, according to Rogers, and turns a smartphone into a satellite phone for text messaging and text-to-911.

In July, the company launched a beta trial open to all Canadians on any device for free. The company will expand to support apps, data , and voice services, including 911 voice calls, according to the press release.

Chris Mushumanski, president of the BC Search and Rescue Association , says the technology helps improve search and rescue both for t

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