SpaceMobile, Inc. (ASTS), builder of the first and only space-based cellular broadband network accessible directly by standard mobile phones, signed Tuesday a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate with Smart Communications.
The MoU was part of ASTS' agreements with mobile network operators which cover 1.4 billion mobile subscribers.
Specifically, its MOU with Smart would extend its coverage to over 70 million Smart subscribers in the country, especially those in hard to reach rural areas.
The collaboration can give "affordable broadband cellular access to the unconnected for the first time ever,” confirmed Abel Avellan, AST SpaceMobile Chairman and CEO.
Under the MoU, AST SpaceMobile will offer cellular broadband network coverage to Smart subscribers after executing definitive agreements and launching its SpaceMobile service.
“Our collaboration will enable us to continue expanding the reach of our services across the Philippines’ more than 7,000 islands,” according to Alfredo S. Panlilio, Smart Communications President and CEO.
“This new satellite communications technology helps us accomplish our mission of connecting the entire nation, where nobody gets left behind,” he concluded.