Rogers Satellite, a new satellite-to-mobile text messaging service from Rogers, is now available to Canadians in British Columbia.
Effective immediately, Canadians can sign up for the free Rogers Satellite beta trial.
Rogers Satellite, which covers more than five million square kilometres, will initially support text messaging and text-to-911 with future expansions planned to add support for apps, data, and voice services.
“Now, with Rogers mobile spectrum paired with satellite technology, Canadians can turn their smartphone into a satellite phone to stay connected and access text-to-911 in some of the most remote parts of Canada,” explains Mark Kennedy, the telecom titan’s Chief Technology Officer.
Once the beta trial ends in October, Rogers Satellite will be included at no additional cost to customers on the Rogers Ultimate Plan or otherwise $15 per month.
“We’re proud to introduce this ground-breaking technology to help Canadians stay safe and connected in more places,” says Tony Staffieri, chief executive officer of Rogers.
“This new technology represents the next big leap in wireless connectivity,” he continued. “We’re proud to continue our legacy of innovative firsts and to connect Canadians in more places.”
Rogers is a member of the BC Tech Association.
BC Tech is the largest member-led technology non-profit in British Columbia, and we’re dedicated to turning startups and scaleups into the anchor companies of tomorrow. Our work supports members to grow and diversify their talent pool, acquire new customers, access capital and accelerate their scaleup journey. Technology is a key industry for BC’s future and builds resiliency in every industry. Today, every company is a tech company. Join now.
When connected to Rogers Satellite, customers can send a text to the Rocky Mountains, from a remote highway or the faraway shores of Hudson Bay.
“We continually invest to bring Canadians the best networks and the most coverage,” stated Kennedy.
In B.C., the technology is already being utilized by the BC Search and Rescue Association.
The tech is “a significant advancement for public safety and emergency response in BC’s remote areas,” according to association president Chris Mushumanski.
“The ability to send text messages, including text-to-911, during the initial rollout from areas without traditional coverage, represents a crucial step forward for search and rescue operations,” he remarked, noting how “improved backcountry connectivity enhances both responder coordination and public safety.”
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