LONDON: Mobile network operator Vodafone is backing a satellite venture that aims to broadcast a mobile broadband network from space, potentially boosting its 4G and 5G coverage for users without the need for a specialised handset.
Vodafone has invested US$25 million in Texas-based AST & Science’s space-based network, becoming the lead investor alongside Japan’s Rakuten.
The US company plans to launch the world’s first low-earth-orbit, low-latency satellite network called SpaceMobile that can connect directly to a smartphone.
Vodafone said SpaceMobile would enhance its network across Europe and Africa, but not Australia.
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