Vodafone has successfully made what it claims to be the "world's first" satellite video call using a standard smartphone, paving the way for a mobile broadband service that can provide coverage to 4G and 5G phones without dedicated satellite hardware. The service, which is expected to launch in Europe later this year, utilizes satellites from SpaceX rival AST SpaceMobile.

The demonstration, which took place in a remote mountain region of Wales with no existing cell service, showcased the potential of the technology to plug gaps in Vodafone's existing mobile network. The call, which lasted around 45 seconds, was made by an engineer to Vodafone CEO Margherita Della Valle, with the engineer's dog also making a charming appearance.

While the video quality was not pristine, with noticeable lag and choppiness, the call remained stable throughout. This achievement is significant, as it demonstrates the ability to provide mobile broadband coverage in areas that were previously inaccessible. Vodafone sees this technology as a "complementary" solution that can enhance its existing network, covering remote areas including mountains and out at sea.

The direct-to-smartphone satellite service is expected to "close the last remaining coverage gaps" in Europe by 2026. This is made possible by AST SpaceMobile's satellite system, which connects using standard 4G and 5G signals, eliminating the need for phones with dedicated satellite components. The service promises a "full mobile broadband experience" with peak speeds of up to 120 megabits per second, surpassing other low Earth orbit satellite constellations that have only facilitated text messaging.

It's worth noting that SpaceX demonstrated its own Starlink satellite-based video call last year, using "unmodified mobile phones." However, Vodafone's achievement is distinct in that it made the call from a remote area with no existing cell service. Other companies, such as AT&T and Verizon, have also partnered with AST SpaceMobile to provide satellite-to-smartphone services across the US.

Vodafone's CEO, Margherita Della Valle, emphasized the importance of connecting people who have never had access to mobile communications before, stating that "Vodafone's job is to get everyone connected, no matter where they are." This technology has the potential to "close the digital divide" and ensure reliable rural connectivity in emergency situations.

There has been no announcement yet regarding pricing for the service. However, with the expected rollout in Europe later this year, Vodafone is poised to make a significant impact on the mobile technology landscape.

The implications of this technology are far-reaching, with the potential to bring mobile broadband coverage to remote and underserved areas. As the rollout approaches, it will be interesting to see how this technology is adopted and integrated into daily life.