Bell Announces Satellite Connectivity For Cell Phones Coming In 2026

Satellite connectivity is a welcome technology for any adventurer or backcountry camper, especially in an emergency situation. Earlier this year Rogers announced their plans utilizing Starlink and while it is currently text-only direct-to-satellite service, data and voice services are expected to be added on in the foreseeable future. Not to be left out, Bell has indicated what they plan to roll out in 2026 which includes text, voice and data service through its partner Texas-based AST SpaceMobile Inc. Bell is also promoting that the data will stay in Canada, something that isn’t offered as a feature by competing companies.

We will continue to report on these services as we learn about them. It certainly will give people more alternative options who have a Spot device or a Garmin device and subscribe to an inReach plan. What are your thoughts?