Rogers Satellite Service Launch a ‘Game-Changer’ for Search and Rescue in Alberta

A new satellite-to-mobile text messaging service from Rogers is now available to Canadians in Alberta and beyond.

Effective immediately, Canadians can sign up for a free beta trial of Rogers Satellite.

Spanning a coverage area of more than five million square kilometres, Rogers Satellite 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.”

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 Alberta, the technology is already being leveraged by the Search and Rescue Association of Alberta.

Rogers Satellite “is a game changer for public safety in Alberta,” according to the SAR organization’s president, Brian Carriere.

“For the first time, people in remote areas will have direct access to emergency services without needing specialized equipment,” he says.

“This advancement improves our ability to respond faster and more effectively, ultimately saving lives and enhancing the safety of both the public and our SAR volunteers,” Carriere continued. “We fully support this important step forward.”