Taiwan Mobile Signs AST SpaceMobile Deal to Advance D2D Satellite Resilience
Taiwan Mobile has signed a strategic cooperation memorandum with AST SpaceMobile at MWC 2026, marking its latest move into direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity.
The agreement will explore how AST SpaceMobile’s low Earth orbit satellites can transmit Taiwan Mobile’s existing cellular spectrum directly to standard smartphones, creating a hybrid satellite–terrestrial architecture designed to strengthen nationwide coverage and resilience.
Using AST’s Direct-to-Cell (D2C) technology, everyday 4G and 5G smartphones would connect directly to satellites when terrestrial signals are unavailable without requiring hardware modifications or dedicated satellite terminals. The focus is on maintaining basic connectivity in remote mountainous regions, offshore areas, and during disaster scenarios such as typhoons and earthquakes, where Taiwan’s infrastructure can be particularly vulnerable.
AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites, equipped with large phased-array antennas, are designed to deliver broadband connectivity directly to unmodified mobile devices. The partnership will involve technical integration studies, spectrum coordination and regulatory engagement, with Taiwan Mobile contributing local network expertise while AST supports system design and satellite integration.
For Taiwan Mobile, the move deepens its non-terrestrial network strategy and positions satellite as a resilience layer for critical communications. For AST SpaceMobile, it adds another operator to its growing list of global partners pursuing standards-based satellite-to-smartphone services.