Direct-to-cell satellite service for AT&T and Verizon subscribers advanced August 5 as AST SpaceMobile launched BlueBirds 11-13 to orbit - but beta service arriving later in 2026 will be intermittent, not continuous, with satellite pass gaps possibly measured in hours. Reaching 45 satellites for continuous coverage is now targeted for early 2027.
Satellite Beta for AT&T and Verizon Gets Closer, But Coverage Gaps Will Span Hours
