The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted AST SpaceMobile, in coordination with AT&T, the ability to test direct-to-cellular connectivity on public safety’s Band 14 spectrum via its BlueBird satellites orbiting Earth. With this approval, it is envisioned that select first responders on FirstNet, Built with AT&T will trial public-safety-grade satellite communications later in 2025.

AT&T is designing satellite connectivity via FirstNet to give first responders the unique capabilities that set the terrestrial FirstNet network apart from commercial networks. In 2024, it successfully tested mission-critical capabilities such as push-to-talk services, and this authorisation will help build on the FirstNet network’s already extensive multi-layered coverage.

“Satellite connectivity on FirstNet is being built with public safety’s unique needs in mind,” said Matt Walsh, AVP – FirstNet and NextGen 9-1-1 Products, AT&T. “First responders need more than the minimum and we are excited to continue building out our comprehensive network to serve the public safety community.”

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Categories: Articles, Broadband, Business, MNO, Mobile, Policy, Regulation, Satellite, Spectrum

Tags: AST SpaceMobile, AT&T, BlueBird, Federal Communications Commission, FirstNet