AST SPACEMOBILE PARTNERS WITH VERIZON IN MAJOR BOOST TO SATELLITE-TO-PHONE CONNECTIVITY

Satellite communications company AST SpaceMobile has secured a major new partner in Verizon, strengthening its position in the emerging direct-to-device (D2D) space race.

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The alliance adds another heavyweight to AST's growing list of backers as it seeks to deliver broadband directly to unmodified smartphones — a goal shared by competitors including SpaceX's Starlink and Lynk Global.

VERIZON JOINS THE ORBITAL NETWORK

Under the new partnership, Verizon will collaborate with AST SpaceMobile to expand satellite-based coverage across remote and underserved parts of the United States. The deal comes as the carrier works to complement its existing terrestrial 5G infrastructure with low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite access, ensuring continuous connectivity even in areas where traditional cell towers are not viable.

AST SpaceMobile has already established a similar agreement with AT&T, which has been testing its technology for several years. By bringing Verizon into the fold, the company now has the two largest U.S. wireless providers aligned with its vision of space-based mobile service — a milestone that significantly elevates its credibility and potential reach.