Vodafone Pioneers First-Ever Satellite Video Call on Standard Smartphone, Targets Europe Rollout

In a groundbreaking leap for mobile connectivity, Vodafone has successfully completed the world’s first live video call over satellite using an unmodified smartphone. The historic demonstration saw engineer Rowan Chesmer connect via satellite from a remote region in the Welsh mountains to Vodafone CEO Margherita Della Valle, showcasing the potential to eliminate coverage dead zones globally.  

The milestone, achieved in partnership with AST SpaceMobile and its cutting-edge BlueBird satellite network, delivered a seamless mobile broadband experience without requiring specialized hardware. This breakthrough leverages direct satellite-to-device technology, enabling standard smartphones to access high-speed connectivity even in areas traditionally devoid of cellular infrastructure.  

Vodafone emphasized the transformative implications of this innovation, particularly for rural or isolated communities where reliable network access remains scarce. “This marks a critical step toward closing the digital divide,” said Della Valle, underscoring the company’s commitment to democratizing connectivity.  

The service, which supports voice, video, and data transmission, is poised to enter testing across Europe later this year, with commercial availability anticipated by 2026. The expansion could redefine mobile broadband standards, offering industries like emergency response, agriculture, and tourism uninterrupted connectivity.  

As telecom giants race to integrate satellite technology, Vodafone’s achievement signals a new era in global communications—one where “no service” alerts may soon become a relic of the past.

For more information on Vodafone space-based mobile networks, please visit Vodafone satellite page