Rogers has exited the trial period of its Rogers Satellite to mobile service which began in July of this year.
The service which was launched yesterday now includes five apps along with text messaging. The new apps allow for voice and video calling, mapping and weather. The apps includes: WhatsApp; Google Maps, AccuWeather, X and CalTopo. Rogers said more apps will be added “as developers update their apps to work over satellite.”
The service is available south of the 58th parallel in areas with no cellular or Wi-Fi coverage, though there are some other regions where it isn’t available. To check if you’re an area with coverage see the Rogers coverage map.
“We’re proud to be the first and only provider in the country to offer this ground-breaking technology so Canadians can stay connected. The launch of Rogers Satellite builds on our legacy of innovative firsts and bringing the best technology to Canadians,” said Tony Staffieri, President and CEO, Rogers. “No one covers Canada like Rogers, and with the launch we’re making the service even better, giving people access to the apps they need most including calling over WhatsApp in places they never thought possible.”
Rogers is the first telco in Canada to exit trail and offer the service. Rogers customers can free access depending on their plan. Canadians using other providers can also sign up for $15 month.
Both Bell, Telus and their partners are expected to launch similar services in 2026. Notably Telus has partnered with Quebec based TerreStar Solutions who have been leading the charge in developing news services.