AT and AST SpaceMobile Achieve First Seamless Handoff Between Ground and Satellite Networks
AT&T and AST SpaceMobile, supported by ground-based technology from Ericsson and Nokia, have achieved what they believe is the industry's first successful handoff between a ground-based cellular network and a direct-to-device satellite network. This milestone occurred on October 21, 2026, outside Granite Falls, Washington. The achievement builds on previous successful voice calls, text messages, and video calls conducted through AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites using everyday smartphones. The primary challenge addressed in this latest test was to seamlessly transfer a connection between AT&T’s terrestrial wireless network and AST SpaceMobile’s satellite network, ensuring continuous service without interruption. Ericsson provided radio and core technology for intelligent network automation, while Nokia supplied radio access technology and mobility software for AST SpaceMobile’s space-based network.
