Affordable Mobile Satellite Services Proposed for Canada
Affordable Mobile Satellite Services Proposed for Canada
Vision Outlined at Canadian Telecommunications Summit
In an address at the annual Canadian Telecommunications Summit held in Toronto Wednesday, Jacques Leduc, President and Chief Executive Officer of Montreal-based TerreStar Solutions laid out his vision for seamless, affordable direct-to-mobile satellite communication services.
“Satellite technology is poised to seamlessly integrate as just another access point to cellular communications."
Jacques Leduc, TerreStar Soluctions
Recently, TerreStar Solutions and TELUS achieved a groundbreaking milestone, showcasing the potential of integrating satellite and cellular networks. During the trial, text messages and voice calls were seamlessly transmitted from TerreStar's EchoStar T1 satellite directly to a standard smartphone. The companies say this achievement marks a significant leap forward in the convergence of satellite and cellular technology.
"With the continuous evolution of technology and the widespread adoption of international protocols and standards, 'satellite technology' is poised to seamlessly integrate as just another access point to cellular communications," Leduc said. "TerreStar anticipates the commercialization of this service in Canada as early as next year, facilitated by strategic partnerships with domestic mobile network operators."
Leduc emphasized the pivotal role governments play in driving strategic initiatives. He credited the MSS policies of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada for propelling our country to the forefront of innovation and development. Leduc pointed out that with 75% of Canada's landmass lacking cellular network coverage, satellite technology is an ideal solution to meet the needs of Canadians and enterprise. Additionally, he commended the Quebec government for its pioneering efforts in providing broadband connectivity to all Quebecers, and for its commitment to implementing truly mobile services by 2026.
TerreStar is the sole owner of the Canadian capacity of the geostationary EchoStar T1 satellite, as well as licenses for S spectrum granted by the Canadian government, coupled with robust terrestrial infrastructure. Additionally, TerreStar has forged strategic partnerships over the years to pioneer an innovative, open network architecture platform, aligned with the internationally adopted 3GPP standard, facilitating seamless integration between cellular and satellite networks.