AST SpaceMobile provided a business update for Q3, sending its shares up 25% in the week the tie-up between Qualcomm and Iridium ceased
AST SpaceMobile, “which is building the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by everyday smartphones”, provided a business update for Q3.
In November 2022, AST SpaceMobile claimed that it had successfully bridged the satellite-smartphone barrier with the BlueWalker 3. The process involves the integration of Radio Access Network software, as well as the respective coding for OSS (Operations Support Systems) and BSS (Business Support Systems) software.
This was a vital step in delivering both 5G and 4G broadband data and voice services. It is working with operators including AT&T, Rakuten Mobile, stc and Vodafone.
Looking to launch in Q1
Abel Avellan, Chairman and CEO of AST SpaceMobile, said, “The manufacturing of our first five commercial satellites is at full speed at our Texas facilities, and we are looking forward to our expected launch in Q1 2024 as we target initial commercial service for both mobile network operators and governmental entities starting in 2024.
“In the third quarter, AST SpaceMobile announced another historic achievement and the capstone of our BlueWalker 3 testing program – the first-ever space-based 5G cellular broadband connection directly to an everyday smartphone. I am grateful for the dedication of our team and support of our network partners who have helped us reach multiple ground-breaking milestones this year.”
Details of the earnings report are here.
Less competition
AST SpaceMobile is also facing less competition in the smartphone-direct-to-satellite sector than it was just a week ago when the tech tie-up between Qualcomm and Iridium was ended by the chip maker. It cited no takers for its Snapdragon Mobile Platforms among smartphone manufacturers.
The agreement between the two was announced in January 2023 with the aim of enabling ordinary smartphones to send two-way messaging and emergency services via satellite.
Iridium announced an agreement with Qualcomm in January 2023 to enable satellite messaging and emergency services in smartphones powered by SnapdragonMobile Platforms using its satellite network.