Quick summary: AST SpaceMobile says satellite coverage for ordinary smartphones on AT&T and Verizon will start switching on across the US before the end of 2026. Early service will be "intermittent", working only when a satellite passes overhead, with beta trials in early 2027 and a bigger constellation by mid-2027. Here is how it works, what you need, and how it compares with T-Mobile's Starlink-based service.
What is AST SpaceMobile?
AST SpaceMobile is a Texas-based company building a network of large "BlueBird" satellites that act like cell towers in space. Unlike satellite phones, the goal is to connect the normal smartphone you already own, without special hardware, when you are outside regular mobile coverage: on highways, in mountains, at sea or after a natural disaster knocks out towers.
The company says it has signed agreements with more than 60 mobile operators worldwide, which together cover over 3 billion subscribers. In the US, its two biggest partners are AT&T and Verizon.
Why it is trending now
- November 2, 2026: AT&T announced a successful test that moved a live phone connection between its ground network and AST's satellite network.
- November 9, 2026: in its third-quarter business update, AST said it plans "nationwide intermittent service activation" in the US and other key markets before the end of 2026.
- AST also announced plans to have over 100 BlueBird satellites deployed during 2027 and 2028, launched by SpaceX, Blue Origin and others, and a reusable rocket of its own from 2028.
Timeline: when can you use it?
| When | What is planned |
|---|---|
| Late 2026 | Intermittent nationwide service starts switching on in the US |
| Early 2027 | Beta trials with AT&T and Verizon customers |
| Mid-2027 | About 45 BlueBird satellites for more continuous coverage |
| 2027–2028 | 100+ satellites deployed in total |
These are company targets, and satellite launches often slip, so treat the dates as plans rather than promises.
What does "intermittent" mean?
With only a few satellites in orbit, your phone can connect only while one is passing overhead. That means you might get a signal for some minutes, then lose it until the next pass. It is useful for emergencies and sending messages from remote areas, but it will not replace normal 5G coverage at first. Coverage should become more continuous as more satellites launch.
How AT&T and Verizon fit in
- AT&T signed a definitive commercial agreement with AST in May 2024 that runs through 2030.
- Verizon signed its definitive agreement in October 2025, using its 850 MHz low-band spectrum to extend coverage from space. Earlier trials included video calls, two-way RCS messaging and a voice-over-LTE call.
AST SpaceMobile vs T-Mobile T-Satellite (Starlink)
- T-Mobile customers have had SpaceX-powered satellite texting since early 2025. AT&T and Verizon users can also use T-Satellite, but it costs $10 a month per line and needs an extra eSIM.
- AST's approach works through your existing AT&T or Verizon plan and aims for full broadband (data, voice and video), not only texting, once the constellation is complete.
- Pricing for the AT&T and Verizon satellite service has not been announced yet.
What should you do now?
- Keep your phone updated. Carrier settings and software updates will be needed to enable satellite features.
- Watch for your carrier's beta sign-up in early 2027 if you often travel outside coverage.
- Don't rely on it for emergencies yet. Until coverage is continuous, keep other safety options (Emergency SOS via satellite on supported iPhones, a satellite messenger or a PLB) if you hike or travel remotely.
- Outside the US? AST works with operators in many countries, but local launch dates depend on each operator and regulator.
Related: Starlink Mini 2: price, battery and release date.
FAQ
Do I need a new phone for AST SpaceMobile?
No. The service is designed to work with the smartphones people already carry.
When will AT&T and Verizon satellite service start?
AST says intermittent service will switch on before the end of 2026, with beta trials in early 2027.
How much will it cost?
AT&T and Verizon have not announced pricing yet.
Sources
- AST SpaceMobile Q3 2026 business update (SEC filing)
- AST SpaceMobile Q2 2026 business update (SEC filing)
- TalkAndroid: AT&T and Verizon satellite service will switch on before 2027
- PhoneArena: AST SpaceMobile beta timeframe for AT&T and Verizon
- Via Satellite: Verizon commercial agreement with AST SpaceMobile
- Beinsure: AST SpaceMobile timeline and 45-satellite plan