Rogers announced Tuesday the commercial launch of its satellite-to-mobile service, Rogers Satellite, which now includes popular apps that offer voice and video calling.
Since its beta launch in July, Rogers Satellite has offered users satellite-to-mobile text messaging and text-to-911, but it is now adding support for satellite-ready apps including WhatsApp, Google Maps, AccuWeather, X and CalTopo.
Rogers said in a press release the list of apps supported by Rogers Satellite will continue to grow as developers update their apps to work over satellite.
“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,” Tony Staffieri, Rogers president and CEO, said in the press release. “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.”
Currently, Rogers Satellite is available in areas without cellular coverage, south of the 58th parallel within Canada (excluding specific regions). More details about Rogers Satellite coverage are available here.
Rogers wireless customers on select plans can add Rogers Satellite for free for a promotional period. Subscribers to the Popular and Ultimate plans can add Rogers Satellite at no additional cost for 12 months and 24 months, respectively. Subscribers to the Rogers Essentials plans can add Rogers Satellite for $10 per month for the first 12 months.
Non-Rogers customers can sign up for Rogers Satellite for $15 per month, with beta trial participants receiving a $5/month discount for the first 12 months.
Customers need a compatible device to use Rogers Satellite. A Rogers Satellite FAQ says Rogers has worked closely with device manufacturers to enable app capability over satellite. At launch, app capability is available on compatible Google Pixel and Samsung devices, with support for select iPhone models coming soon, the Rogers FAQ says.
Rogers Satellite will expand next to support data and voice services, including 911 voice services for all Canadians, Rogers said in its press release.
On Tuesday, Rogers also launched satellite-to-mobile service for IoT businesses, providing connectivity for IoT applications in some of the most remote regions of Canada where traditional cellular networks don’t reach. IoT applications include fleet and asset tracking along remote highways and rail corridors, as well as powering automated sensors for sectors such as forestry and mining.
Image borrowed from Rogers’s website
