Rogers has launched a trial of its new Rogers Satellite service that offers satellite-to-mobile text messaging using Rogers wireless spectrum with SpaceX Starlink satellites.
The company said the new service “covers over 5.4 million square kilometers – that’s over 2.5 times more than any other Canadian wireless service provider.” There are a couple of caveats. The service is available only “south of the 58th parallel (excluding specific regions) in most outdoor areas where you can see the sky.” So the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut are all excluded as are parts of northern Quebec, BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Rogers says that Rogers Satellite is available to all Canadians, regardless of service provider, and that the beta trial comes at no cost. Once the service comes out of trial it will be free for Rogers customers with a Rogers Ultimate Plan and and will also be available for $15/month for all Canadians.
Rogers says the service “will initially support text messaging and text-to-911 and will expand to support apps, data and voice services, including 911 voice services.”
Rogers is also working Lynk Global, Telesat and others to potentially expand their coverage and offerings.
Tony Staffieri, President and CEO, Rogers said, “We’re proud to introduce this ground-breaking technology to help Canadians stay safe and connected in more places. Earlier this month Rogers celebrated the 40th anniversary of the first wireless call in Canada, and this new technology represents the next big leap in wireless connectivity. We’re proud to continue our legacy of innovative firsts and to connect Canadians in more places.”
For more information and to sign up for the beta trial visit https://www.rogers.com/satellite.