AT&T stock moves toward satellite beta after network handoff

Published on 11/13/2026 at 12:51 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWS

AT&T stock is moving toward satellite beta services after a live network handoff with AST SpaceMobile. Commercial timing remains open.

Satellite beta moves closer

AT&T and AST SpaceMobile completed a live handoff between terrestrial and direct-to-device satellite networks.
Beta services are expected to follow real-world testing, while no consumer launch date has been announced.
The satellite layer is designed to extend AT&T coverage in remote areas and support connectivity for first responders.

AT&T Inc., US00206R1023, Illustration mit AI erstellt.

AT&T and AST SpaceMobile have moved their direct-to-device satellite partnership closer to customer testing after completing a live handoff between a terrestrial mobile network and a satellite network. The milestone was reported by PhoneArena on Thursday, November 12.

The handoff addresses a central technical hurdle for satellite-to-phone services: maintaining an active connection as a device leaves terrestrial coverage. AT&T worked with AST SpaceMobile, Ericsson and Nokia on the test. The companies are seeking a transition that keeps calls and data sessions connected rather than requiring users to reconnect manually.

From network test to beta

AT&T said the test took place on Wednesday, October 21, outside Granite Falls, Washington, at 8:15 a.m. Pacific Time. The demonstration built on earlier voice, text and video tests using ordinary smartphones and AST SpaceMobile's BlueBird satellites.

Robert Walters, AT&T senior vice president for Network, described the handoff as a significant milestone but not the finish line, according to the report. The next step is beta service under real-world conditions, where the partners can refine performance before pursuing commercial availability. No consumer launch date has been announced.

AST SpaceMobile expects mobile operators to begin trials in early 2027. The company is targeting intermittent service across the United States and other key markets by the end of 2026, with connectivity available when a satellite is overhead. PhoneArena reported that AST SpaceMobile aims to have 45 BlueBird satellites in orbit by mid-2027, while about 25 satellites are viewed as a suitable level for initial beta trials.

Coverage opportunity and execution risk

For AT&T, satellite connectivity could complement its wireless and fiber networks in remote or hard-to-reach areas. It may also add resilience for first responders, but the commercial opportunity depends on network reliability, satellite deployment and customer terms that have not yet been set.

AT&T stock traded at 20.11 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 12:47 CET on Friday, November 13.