AST SpaceMobile shares rise 13% with Verizon deal for space connectivity in rural US areas Por Luís Henrique Costa
3 min de leitura
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AST SpaceMobile and Verizon announced on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, a definitive commercial agreement to provide space-based cellular and broadband services to the carrier’s customers in the continental United States.
The pact, set to begin operations in 2026, aims to extend Verizon’s network coverage in rural regions and dead zones, using satellites to connect standard smartphones without modifications.
The recent technology demonstration confirmed voice and video calls, as well as bidirectional RCS messaging, between standard devices and a BlueBird satellite in orbit.
AST SpaceMobile shares, listed on Nasdaq under the ticker ASTS, rose 13% in pre-market trading, reflecting investor optimism about the expansion.
Successful demonstration boosts confidence
Recent tests validated direct smartphone connections to AST SpaceMobile’s space network.
A clear VoLTE call took place from a device in Texas to another in New Jersey, via satellite.
These results exceeded expectations and paved the way for commercial launch.
Network expansion in remote areas
The agreement leverages Verizon’s 850 MHz spectrum to reach isolated locations.
This covers vast rural extensions where terrestrial towers are unfeasible.
The technology enables access without extra hardware, benefiting millions of users.
Similar partnerships, like T-Mobile’s with Starlink, already operate with over 650 satellites in orbit.
History of collaboration between the companies
The alliance dates back to May 2024, when they began strategic cooperation.
Since then, investments in testing accelerated development.
AST SpaceMobile CEO Abel Avellan highlighted the extension of premium spectrum to underserved areas.
Financial terms were not disclosed, but the focus is on technical integration.
Market reactions and competition
Verizon shares remained stable, while rivals like AT&T invest in spectrum acquired from EchoStar for about $23 billion.
Analysts view the move as a step toward ubiquitous connectivity.
- 13% rise in ASTS shares in pre-market.
- Coverage for dead zones across the continent.
- Successful testing of voice and video calls.
- Confirmed bidirectional RCS messaging.
Benefits for everyday users
Verizon customers will gain continuous access during travel or in remote regions.
The initiative aligns with demands for uninterrupted mobility.
Carrier executives emphasize creating a new paradigm in digital connectivity.
This includes support for competitive-speed broadband services.
Technological advances in the sector
AST SpaceMobile plans to launch more satellites to densify the constellation.
Each unit covers areas equivalent to entire states.
Integration with terrestrial 5G networks ensures smooth transitions.
Regulatory challenges were overcome with recent approvals for testing.
The sector sees this as an acceleration in eliminating coverage gaps.
Initial implementation prospects
Initial launches will occur in regional phases starting in 2026.
Focus on states with high rural density.
Performance monitoring will guide subsequent expansions.
