TORONTO, ON – Rogers Communications announced the commercial launch of Rogers Satellite on Tuesday, a direct satellite-to-mobile service designed to keep users connected in the vast, remote areas of Canada. The company touts the service as a Canadian first, expanding its coverage to three times the square kilometres of any other wireless service provider.
The launch of Rogers Satellite follows a successful beta trial and is aimed at attracting customers as the company contends with major rivals BCE and Telus.
Apps and Services for Remote Areas
The service utilizes SpaceX’s Starlink low-earth orbit satellites and Rogers’ national wireless spectrum to automatically connect compatible smartphones in areas without traditional cell service.
Moving beyond basic SMS capabilities offered during the trial, the commercial service now supports popular apps that allow for communication, navigation, and weather checks. Customers can connect directly to satellites and access apps such as:
- WhatsApp (including voice and video calling)
- Google Maps
- X (formerly Twitter)
- AccuWeather and CalTopo
Rogers President and CEO Tony Staffieri said the launch “builds on our legacy of innovative firsts” and will give people access to the apps they need most, including calling over WhatsApp in places they never thought possible.
Pricing and Future Expansion
Rogers Satellite is available to all Canadians, regardless of their mobile carrier.
- Pricing for Non-Subscribers: The service is priced at C$15 monthly.
- Promotional Offers: Rogers Ultimate plan customers receive the service at no extra cost for 24 months, and customers on Popular plans receive it at no extra cost for 12 months. Participants in the prior beta trial receive a discount.
The company also launched a satellite-to-mobile service for Internet of Things (IoT) businesses, providing connectivity in remote regions for fleet and asset tracking along highways and rail corridors, and powering automated sensors for sectors like forestry and mining.
Rogers confirmed its plan to expand the service again next year to support data and voice services, which will enable traditional cellphone calls, including 911 voice services, for all Canadians.
