Bell and Texas-based AST SpaceMobile say they have successfully completed Canada’s first space-based cellular test, making a direct-to-cell voice call and streaming video over satellite to a regular smartphone.

The trial, carried out in New Brunswick this summer, used AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites along with Bell’s ground infrastructure. In addition to a 4G voice call, the test included video calls, SMS messaging, broadband data, and emergency alerts — all on an unmodified phone.

Bell says the technology will help extend coverage to remote and northern regions that are difficult to reach with traditional networks. The company is targeting a wider rollout of space-based voice, text, and broadband services in 2026.

When fully deployed, Bell’s network is expected to cover more than

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