AT&T says it is evaluating LEO direct-to-device options

TL;DR:

• AT&T CEO John Stankey said during AT&T's Q1 earnings call that the company is keeping low Earth orbit direct-to-device options open.
• Stankey discussed direct-to-device as part of a broader convergence theme and addressed perceived competitive threats.
• The comments indicate AT&T has not ruled out using satellite-based mobile connectivity alongside its terrestrial network.

AT&T CEO John Stankey said during AT&T's Q1 earnings call that AT&T is keeping low Earth orbit, or LEO, direct-to-device options open. He made the comments while discussing convergence and the direct-to-device market during the company’s quarterly results call.

Stankey said AT&T is evaluating direct-to-device, or D2D, options rather than closing off that path. The source excerpt does not provide a date for the earnings call, commercial launch details, partner names, device compatibility, pricing, or geographic scope.

Direct-to-device satellite connectivity has become a wider topic across the mobile industry as operators assess how non-terrestrial coverage could complement existing cellular networks. AT&T's comments place it alongside other operators examining how satellite links may fit into future connectivity strategies, but the source does not name specific competitors, standards, or agreements.

Related Questions

Is AT&T considering satellite direct-to-device service?

Yes. AT&T CEO John Stankey said during the company’s Q1 earnings call that AT&T is keeping LEO direct-to-device options open.

Did AT&T announce a specific LEO partner or launch date?

No. The source excerpt does not name a satellite partner, launch date, pricing, supported devices, or coverage markets.