Taiwan Mobile announced at MWC 2026 on March 2 that it has signed a strategic cooperation memorandum with AST SpaceMobile, the first company to achieve direct-to-cellular (D2C) satellite communications. The partnership aims to extend connectivity from terrestrial networks to space, creating an integrated satellite-terrestrial 3D network to bolster communication resilience across Taiwan.
Standard Phones, No Modifications Needed: Filling Coverage Gaps
The core of this deal is D2C technology. Unlike traditional satellite phones that require bulky terminals or large antennas, AST SpaceMobile's low-earth orbit satellites (orbiting at roughly 500 km) can connect directly to ordinary smartphones in users' hands. No hardware upgrade or add-on is necessary. This means users can maintain basic communications in remote mountains, at sea, or when ground infrastructure is knocked out by disasters.
The technology not only improves convenience but also slashes cost, shifting satellite communications from a niche need to a backup option accessible to the general public during critical moments.
Strengthening Resilience for Taiwan's Challenging Terrain
Taiwan's fragmented terrain and frequent natural disasters have long made mobile coverage in mountains, valleys, and outlying islands a headache. Taiwan Mobile President James Lin said low-earth orbit satellites can reinforce ground network resilience, especially when earthquakes or typhoons damage base stations. Satellites can provide a vital fallback.
AST SpaceMobile President Scott Wisniewski noted that by linking the company's space-based base stations with Taiwan Mobile's ground stations, the two firms can build a seamless communication architecture. AST will operate the satellite system, while Taiwan Mobile will handle local ground station operations, spectrum planning, and regulatory coordination to bring the service to Taiwan.
Tapping a Global Ecosystem Backed by Google, AT&T, Verizon
AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird satellite fleet features large phased-array antennas, with each satellite spanning 2,400 square feet when deployed. The company has secured strategic investments from Google, AT&T, Verizon, and Vodafone, and collaborates with defense and humanitarian agencies worldwide.
Lin emphasized that this collaboration not only aligns Taiwan Mobile with top-tier global operators but also embodies the brand's "Open Possible" spirit. By merging satellite and terrestrial networks, Taiwan Mobile is moving toward a vision of ubiquitous connectivity, delivering communication experiences that "go beyond the possible" for both enterprises and individual users.