Canada has launched Cellular Starlink Service to its citizens by simply tapping SpaceX’s orbiting satellites, local subscribers in Canada will be able to stay connected in cellular dead zones as SpaceX’s cellular Starlink leaves beta and formally launches as a commercial service through mobile carrier Rogers.
Through a collaboration with Rogers Communications, cellular Starlink service, also known as Rogers Satellite, has been introduced in Canada. As of December 2025, some app functionality was already available on a few devices, and the service is currently expanding to enable full app compatibility.
Tony Staffieri, CEO of Rogers Communications, said that they are proud to be the first and only provider in the country to offer this ground-breaking technology so Canadians can stay connected to loved ones.
In July, the service provider, known as Rogers Satellite in Canada had started a free beta trial that allowed users to send SMS texts using SpaceX’s satellites. The drawback is that Rogers’ free trial period is coming to an end. However, Rogers Satellite is introducing a potent feature as part of Tuesday’s launch: support for satellite data to a number of mobile applications, such as the hiking tool CalTopo and AccuWeather, Google Maps, WhatsApp, and X.
The provider has stated is that Rogers uses low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide the service in collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink.
“App capabilities will be accessible on compatible Samsung and Google Pixel devices on December 9. The carrier stated in a FAQ that support for a few iPhone models will be available soon.
With WhatsApp support, you can make video calls. However, the business added that the satellite data used “will be deducted from your plan’s existing data bucket.” Also the satellite link now provides data to specific apps, such as Google Maps, WhatsApp, and X, according to Canadian telecom carrier Rogers, as part of the post-beta rollout.
As of late 2025, the present features the service offers public alerts, text messaging, text-to-emergency services, and emergency location sharing.
On some selected plans, Rogers is providing satellite connectivity as a complimentary benefit for a whole year. Customers that took part in the beta trial will receive a $5 monthly discount for the first year, but otherwise, interested people must pay CA$15 each month.
The carrier further stated, “Rogers Satellite’s open to anyone, from any carrier, with a compatible device,” pointing out that the satellite link can function via a second SIM card in an eSIM phone. “You can keep your existing plan with your current provider and sign up for a Rogers Satellite plan.”
Similar steps have been taken in the US by SpaceX’s partner T-Mobile, who released the cellular Starlink under the “T-Satellite” name as a premium feature after providing a free beta for several months. Most users, even those who use other carriers like AT&T and Verizon, pay $10 a month for the service.
The satellite-based app capability is being introduced. As of December 9, 2025, compatible Google Pixel and Samsung devices can make calls using apps like WhatsApp; support for specific iPhone models is “coming soon.”
The satellite connectivity is only available for free to T-Mobile customers on the most expensive plans. The carrier then started providing support for satellite text messaging and satellite data to a few apps in August.
Rogers’ implementation, however, has been a little different. For instance, the carrier offers Apple Watch connectivity, but T-Satellite now only offers phone connectivity. Moving beyond app-based data, the business also stated in Tuesday’s statement that “Rogers Satellite will expand next to support data and voice services.”
Furthermore, the Canadian carrier is using SpaceX satellites to provide “satellite-to-mobile for IoT businesses.” “Applications include powering automated sensors for industries like forestry and mining, as well as fleet and asset tracking along remote highways and rail corridors,” according to Rogers. “As technology develops, it will assist in transforming Canadian government agencies and businesses.”
However, in contrast to T-Mobile, Rogers has made an effort to disassociate itself from SpaceX in order to avoid any Canadian criticism of SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. SpaceX does not appear to be mentioned on the Rogers Satellite website.
With only 18% of Canada’s landmass covered by conventional mobile networks, the service seeks to greatly increase coverage by establishing connectivity in previously unreachable locations.
Further information says that its cost until the end of October 2025, the service was available to all Canadians as a free public beta. However it costs $15 per month after the beta, although Rogers subscribers on the “Ultimate Plan” can use it for free.
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