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Google Backs Starlink Rival AST SpaceMobile for Android Satellite Support

Along with a financial investment, Google will work with AST SpaceMobile on satellite connectivity for Android phones.

Google has decided to support AST SpaceMobile—a potential rival to SpaceX’s cellular Starlink system—with the hope of bringing satellite connectivity to Android phones. Last year, AST SpaceMobile demonstrated that the company’s prototype satellite, BlueWalker 3, can beam the internet connectivity to power video calls and download rates as high as 14Mbps. According to the announcement, AT&T has committed to paying AST SpaceMobile another $20 million in revenue “predicated on the launch and successful initial operation of the first 5 commercial satellites."

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