Update – May 23, 2023: We have published a report detailing the technical performance of AST Space Mobile direct-to-handset LEO constellation. Click here for additional information.
Different approaches are possible to enable Direct-to-Handset (DTH) satellite connectivity. For instance, there’s the approach by T-Mobile and SpaceX (see here) and by Apple and Globalstar (see here). AST SpaceMobile is taking yet another approach [download our Insight Note for additional information]. What differentiates these approaches is the way they access spectrum. For example, AST chose to be nimble so the DTH service fits within the existing mobile coverage and spectrum allocation. On the other hand, T-Mobile and SpaceX chose to operate in a slice of spectrum that T-Mobile will dedicate to DTH services. Finally, Apple and Globalstar look to implement DTH in MSS frequencies which bypasses the service provider. Three radically different approaches with different trade-offs in balancing the technology, cost and commercial requirements.