Today’s telecom news includes announcements on AST SpaceMobile, Xfinity, AT&T subscribers, among others.
Space-Based Mobile Service AST SpaceMobile Gets Green Light in the U.S.
The Federal Communications Commission has granted AST SpaceMobile commercial approval to deliver direct-to-device cellular broadband from space, enabling connectivity on standard smartphones without special hardware. The authorization covers a planned network of up to 248 low-Earth orbit satellites under the Supplemental Coverage from Space framework. Partnering with major telecom providers, the service will use low-band spectrum to extend coverage into rural and hard-to-reach areas. This move strengthens efforts to close connectivity gaps and enhance network resilience, positioning AST SpaceMobile to advance its commercial rollout of space-based mobile broadband services across the United States.
Xfinity Unveils Game-Changing Mobile Plans with Built-In Lifetime Protection
Xfinity Mobile has launched two new wireless plans Mobile Plus and Mobile Select aimed at delivering premium features without high costs. The standout Mobile Plus plan includes lifetime device protection, anytime upgrades, global travel pass, and unlimited data in a single monthly price, removing typical add-on fees. Mobile Select offers a lower-cost option with essential features like unlimited data and HD streaming. Both plans leverage a hybrid network of over 23 million WiFi hotspots and 5G coverage, delivering speeds up to 1 Gbps. Starting at $45 and $30 per line respectively, the plans target simplicity, flexibility, and savings of up to 50 percent compared to major carriers.
AT&T Beats Subscriber Estimates as Bundling Strategy Drives Growth
AT&T reported stronger-than-expected wireless subscriber growth in Q1 2026, adding 294,000 postpaid users, surpassing analyst forecasts of 272,000. The gains were largely driven by its bundling strategy, combining wireless and high-speed fiber services, with about 42 percent of internet customers also opting for mobile plans. To stay competitive, the company continued offering device subsidies and pricing adjustments, including discounts on mid-tier plans. Revenue rose around 3 percent to $31.5 billion, beating estimates, while its advanced connectivity segment focused on 5G and fiber also saw growth. The results highlight how bundled offerings are helping AT&T attract and retain customers in a competitive telecom market.
SHAFANA FAZAL
