Vodafone has made the world’s first video call via satellite using normal 4G/5G smartphones from a remote location.
The call was made by Rowan Chesmer, a Vodafone engineer, in a remote mountainous location in Wales without broadband coverage to Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone group chief executive, in Newbury.
The company said that this will eventually allow multiple users in areas of no mobile coverage to make and receive video calls, access the internet and use online messaging services.
Vodafone claims it is the only satellite technology of its kind built to offer a full mobile broadband experience and will enable universal digital connectivity and the closure of mobile coverage gaps.
The company added that unlike current satellite-based services, users do not need a special dish, terminal or satellite phone to operate the service.
The technology replicates the experience of existing 4G and 5G mobile networks, enabling users operate everyday smartphones to switch between space and ground-based networks automatically.
Vodafone claims that it is the only satellite service in the world that currently offers mobile broadband directly to multiple 4G or 5G smartphones by working as an extension of land-based networks.
It says that together, the satellite service and terrestrial network will improve Europe’s communications infrastructure for use in any location, including mountains, or out at sea and boost network resilience.
Following further tests this spring, Vodafone said it aims to progressively introduce the direct-to-smartphone broadband satellite service commercially in markets across Europe later this year and during 2026 to close the last remaining coverage gaps.
“We are bringing customers the best network and connecting people who have never had access to mobile communications before,” said Margherita Della Valle. “This will help to close the digital divide, supporting people from all corners of Europe to keep in touch with family and friends, or work, as well as ensuring reliable rural connectivity in an emergency.”
