Bell and Texas-based AST SpaceMobile say they have successfully completed Canada’s first space-based cellular test, making a direct-to-cell voice call and streaming video over satellite to a regular smartphone. Bell first partnered with AST SpaceMobile in 2021 and has invested in the project through Bell Ventures. Back in the summer, Rogers launched its direct-to-cell service powered by SpaceX’s Starlink. Coverage recently expanded and Starlink direct-to-cell data services are already underway in the U.S. through its partner T-Mobile. Telus has yet to offer direct-to-cell satellite offerings at the moment, but that will likely change at some point to match its rivals.