$ASTS is back in the spotlight as its partner AT&T pushes back on the idea that satellite networks could disrupt traditional wireless carriers.

If you're following the space and telecom race, here's what makes this interesting: AST SpaceMobile is working to connect regular smartphones directly to satellites, while SpaceX's Starlink is also looking to expand its reach.

AT&T's John Stankey highlighted the advantages of fiber, showing that traditional telecom networks still have a role to play as satellite connectivity grows.

Could satellite-to-phone technology become a serious alternative to traditional coverage, or will it work best alongside existing networks?