Rogers and Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer Canada’s first satellite-to-phone coverage & here’s what we know so far

Big news for phone coverage across the country. Rogers just announced its new partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, and Canadians will soon be more connected than ever before.

On Wednesday, April 26th, Rogers and SpaceX announced that they’re bringing satellite-to-phone coverage to Canada, ensuring Canadians stay connected beyond the limits of traditional wireless networks, from coast-to-coast. This marks the first wireless company in Canada to do so.

“As the country’s biggest investor in 5G spectrum with Canada’s largest 5G network, Rogers is proud to work with SpaceX to expand wireless coverage across all of Canada, from coast to coast, to keep Canadians connected and safe,” says President and CEO of Rogers, Tony Staffieri. “In the future, these investments will deliver wireless connectivity, including access to 911, to even the most remote areas.”

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Rogers’ national wireless coverage currently reaches nearly 70% of households across Canada, according to the release. Using SpaceX’s Starlink low earth orbit satellites, the companies plan to gradually introduce satellite coverage, starting with SMS text.

Eventually, the companies plan to provide voice and data across Canada’s most remote wilderness, including national parks and rural highways that are unconnected as of today.

“As a Canadian, I’m excited that SpaceX is collaborating with Rogers to bring SpaceX’s Direct to Cell service to Canadians. I’m proud of the impact this will have across the country wherever Canadians may work, play or travel,” said Sara Spangelo, co-lead for Direct to Cell at SpaceX.

Once available, satellite-to-phone coverage will work with all 5G and 4G smartphones, and allow Canadians to reach 911 via SMS and MMS text.