Rogers launches satellite texting service in Canada

Canadian telecom Rogers Communications (NYSE:RCI) has launched a satellite-to-mobile text messaging service, which will expand its network coverage into more than 2M square miles (5.4M sq km) of remote territory, the company said on Tuesday.

Rogers Satellite will initially offer text messaging and text-to-911 to those who sign up for a beta trial, the company said. It will later offer satellite internet and calling services.

The company said the new service, which uses low-earth orbit satellites and Rogers national wireless spectrum, will also be available outside, including on bodies of water.

"Now, with Rogers mobile spectrum paired with satellite technology, Canadians can turn their smartphone into a satellite phone to stay connected and access text-to-911 in some of the most remote parts of Canada," the company's technology chief Mark Kennedy said.

Once the beta trial ends in October, the service will be included at no additional cost to customers on the "Rogers Ultimate Plan" and will also be available to the public for C$15/month, the company said. Customers participating in the beta trial will receive a C$5/month discount for the first 12 months.

In June, the company's U.S. rival T-Mobile (TMUS) introduced a satellite-to-mobile service, which is powered by Elon Musk's Starlink (STRLK).