The UK is now expected to become the first country in Western Europe where mobile operators and satellite companies work together at scale to deploy these space-based mobile services.

Ofcom has confirmed that mobile operators and satellite providers can use existing mobile spectrum for direct-to-device services, subject to strict technical conditions.

An operator wishing to offer satellite connectivity must apply for a variation to its Ofcom licence. Interference rules to protect air traffic control systems, neighbouring countries’ networks and existing UK mobile services have been resolved. Users will not need a licence to connect their phone to a satellite.

Ofcom’s decision means UK mobile operators can now formally partner with satellite providers to extend coverage beyond existing terrestrial networks, helping eliminate “not-spots” in rural areas and providing network resilience during terrestrial outages.

From specialist kit to consumer smartphones

Until now, satellite connectivity has been restricted to dedicated satellite phones or terminals, typically used by the military, emergency services, shipping, aviation and mountain rescue teams.

Direct-to-device technology changes that by allowing standard smartphones to connect directly to low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites using existing mobile frequencies. Handsets will not require new chips or specialist antennas, relying instead on software and modem upgrades.

Satellites will beam signals directly to phones, allowing users to send messages, make calls or access limited data services where there is no conventional mobile coverage.

The technology has already been deployed in Ukraine to provide backup connectivity and network resilience following wartime damage to mobile infrastructure.

David Willis, Ofcom’s Group Director for Spectrum, said:
“Mobile operators are already pressing ahead to make the UK the first nation in Western Europe to have widespread access to this technology, which will see remote and rural areas be better connected than ever before.”

Ofcon. Operators and satellite partners line up

UK network operators have already begun positioning themselves for satellite connectivity.

Virgin Media O2 has partnered with Elon Musk’s Starlink and to introduce satellite-based services next year.. Vodafone has signed an agreement with AST SpaceMobile, which is developing large LEO satellites designed to work directly with conventional smartphones.

Initial services are expected to focus on messaging and emergency connectivit, But operatorsexpect full voice and data capabilities to be part of longer-term roadmaps as satellite constellations expand.

The wider direct-to-satellite race

Direct-to-satellite services are emerging as one of the most strategically important developments in global mobile connectivity.

The main satellite players include:

• Starlink (SpaceX), which is working with operators including T-Mobile in the US and O2 in the UK

• AST SpaceMobile, backed by Vodafone, AT&T and Google

• Lynk Global, positioning itself as a wholesale satellite-to-mobile provider

• Iridium, which continues to focus on specialist and enterprise satellite communications

On the handset side, Apple has already introduced limited satellite-based emergency messaging on some iPhones, to contact emergency services and share their location when out of mobile range.

Why operators care

Direct-to-device satellites offer a potential solution to the most expensive challenge in network deployment of covering the “last few per cent” of the population in remote and sparsely populated areas.

Operators can use satellite coverage as a complement to terrestrial networks improving coverage obligations, resilience and customer perception without massive infrastructure spend.

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/ofcom-confirms-lift-off-for-direct-satellite-comms-to-standard-uk-smartphones/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/virgin-media-o2-strikes-starlink-deal-to-extend-rural-mobile-coverage/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/virgin-media-o2-strikes-starlink-deal-to-extend-rural-mobile-coverage/#respond Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:37:37 +0000 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/?p=179197 Virgin Media O2 has signed a multi-year agreement with Starlink’s Direct to Cell division to improve mobile connectivity in remote parts of the UK/.

VMO2 is the first operator in the country to use the satellite provider’s low-Earth-orbit (LEO) network for direct-to-device services.

Vodafone has put its D2D efforts into AST SpaceMobile technology. Virgin Media O2 already uses Starlink technology to provide satellite backhaul to remote mobile sites as part of the SRN programme, though that capability uses a separate Starlink broadband constellation.

The service uses connectivity from Starlink’s 650-plus LEO satellites, with further coverage and performance improvements anticipated as next-generation spacecraft are deployed.. Starlink satellites with Direct to Cell capability have an ‘eNodeB’ modem onboard that acts like a cellphone tower in space, with advanced phased array antennas that connect seamlessly over lasers to any point in the globe, allowing network integration similar to a standard roaming partner.

The partnership will enable the launch of O2 Satellite, a new service that will initially support messaging and data on standard handsets using a portion of Virgin Media O2’s licensed spectrum. App compatibility will expand over time, with early support prioritising messaging, mapping and location-based tools.

The operator says the service will help eliminate rural “not-spots” and lift its UK landmass coverage to more than 95 per cent within 12 months of launch. O2 Satellite will automatically activate when traditional macro coverage is unavailable, complementing ongoing Shared Rural Network (SRN) deployments.

Virgin Media O2 is conducting internal trials, with commercial rollout expected in the first half of 2026. Pricing and full service details will be confirmed closer to launch.

CEO Lutz Schüler said the partnership bolsters the £700m Virgin Media O2 is investing in its mobile network this year. “Starlink is a clear leader in this space making it the right partner to complement our existing coverage,” he said.

Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd welcomed the announcement, saying it demonstrated how private sector innovation can ensure no community is “left behind”.

Mike Nicolls, Starlink VP of Engineering, said the agreement would help “end mobile dead zones” and keep people connected while travelling, farming or enjoying outdoor activities.

Customers can register interest at: o2.co.uk/satellite

The availablility of the service comes less than two weeks after Vodafone demonstrated a satellite video call from a regular smartphone using AST SpaceMobile’s constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites.  Shares of AST SpaceMobile jumpedy 17.47 percent  after

T-Mobile’s service leverages Starlink to extend connectivity to 500,000 square miles of the U.S. that have previously been unreachable by traditional land-based cell towers.

The newly unveiled T-Mobile Starlink service operates with satellites equipped with Direct-to-Cell capabilities. These satellites orbit over 200 miles above Earth at speeds exceeding 17,000 miles per hour. Currently, the service supports text messaging, with plans to introduce picture messaging, data, and voice calls in the near future.

T-Mobile Starlink automatically connects to a phone. Users don’t need to manually connect or install any special hardware. When a phone moves out of a standard cell tower’s range, it will automatically switch to the T-Mobile Starlink network. This functionality extends to most smartphones manufactured within the last four years, ensuring compatibility without requiring specific operating systems or models.

Emergency Alerts and Coverage

T-Mobile Starlink can broadcast Wireless Emergency Alerts to compatible devices within its satellite coverage. This feature ensures that people in remote areas receive critical notifications, such as severe weather warnings or natural disaster alerts.

Pricing and Availability

The beta service is free until July. After that, T-Mobile Starlink will be bundled at no extra charge with business plans. Other T-Mobile customers can add the service for $15 per month per line. Early adopters who sign up for the beta will receive a $10 per month discount, reducing the cost by a third.

Operating from low Earth orbit, Vodafone says its satellite service using AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites is currently the only service that offers direct mobile broadband from space to standard 4G and 5G smartphones. The service will augment Vodafone’s terrestrial network, offering connectivity in areas where mobile coverage has been impossible.

The BlueBird satellites are low orbit satellites ( from AST SpaceMobile that are designed to connect cell phones to cellular broadband. The satellites are part of AST SpaceMobile’s SpaceMobile constellation. 

The network made the world’s first space-based video call made using standard 4G/5G smartphones The breakthrough call was placed by Vodafone engineer Rowan Chesmer from a remote area of mid-Wales to Vodafone Group Chief Executive Margherita Della Valle, using AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites.

Vodafone says this marks a significant leap forward in mobile communications, demonstrating how satellite technology can eliminate coverage gaps without requiring specialized hardware such as satellite phones or terminals.

The call also unveiled Europe’s first space-to-land gateway located at Vodafone’s Newbury headquarters, which seamlessly integrates satellite and terrestrial networks.

Connectivity Without Additional Hardware

Traditional satellite-based services rely on specialised terminals, But Vodafone’s solution is said to allow standard smartphones to automatically switch between satellite and terrestrial networks. The technology offers full mobile broadband services, including voice calls, video calls, and internet access, bringing connectivity to previously unreachable locations.

Said Vodafone CEO Margherita Della Valle  (main pic) “By integrating cutting-edge satellite technology with our European 5G network, we are providing customers with seamless connectivity—whether for work, personal communication, or emergencies.”

Astronaut Tim Peake, (main pic) who joined Della Valle for the unveiling in Newbury added: *”Having spent six months on the International Space Station, I understand the value of staying in touch. Vodafone’s achievement brings us closer to a world where no one is out of reach”.

Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said satellite-powered mobile broadband is key to bridging the digital divide.

“Ensuring connectivity for Britain’s hardest-to-reach areas is a top priority. Vodafone’s satellite and 5G innovation is a game-changer, addressing mobile coverage gaps and enhancing digital inclusion,”* said Bryant (below)

Vodafone UK’s Chief Executive Max Taylor, who will be CEO of the new combined Vodafone/Three business, added: “The use of satellites in conjunction with our land-based network will ensure customers have the coverage they deserve. We’re excited to have successfully tested the technology and look forward to making it more widely available in the UK.”

 AST SpaceMobile Partnership

The technology is a result of Vodafone’s collaboration with AST SpaceMobile a company specialising in space-based broadband solutions. Vodafone has been a major investor in AST

“This historic milestone marks another step forward in our partnership with Vodafone Together, we’ve achieved several world firsts, including the first space-based voice call, the first 4G download above 10 Mbps, and the first 5G voice call,” said founder and chairman Abel Avellan.

Avellan has over 25 years experience in the space industry and is an inventor on 24 U.S. patents. He was appointed as a Commissioner to the ITU/UNESCO Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development in 2024, named Satellite Teleport Executive of the Year in 2017, and received the Satellite Transaction of the Year award by Euroconsult in 2015.

BlueBIrd v Starlink

How can a normal phone transmit to a satellite?A normal mobile phone can communicate with an AST SpaceMobile satellite thanks to a combination of advanced satellite technology and optimized signal processing, even though the phone itself isn’t designed to transmit powerful signals over such vast distances. Here’s how it works:

1. Advanced Satellite Antennas (Massive Phased Array)
– AST SpaceMobile satellites are equipped with huge, highly sensitive phased array antennas—like the BlueWalker 3, which has a 64-square-meter  array.
– These large antennas can focus on very weak signals, compensating for the low power output of a standard phone.
– They create high-gain beams that effectively “listen” for the faint signals from mobile devices.

*2. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Advantage
– Unlike traditional geostationary satellites (~36,000 km away), AST SpaceMobile’s satellites operate in LEO) at around 500-700 km altitude.
– This drastically reduces the distance the signal must travel, making it easier for the phone to connect using its regular transmission power.

3. Signal Optimisation Techniques
– AST uses advanced modulation, error correction, and signal processing algorithms to clean up and amplify the weak signals from mobile phones.
– Time and frequency adjustments help maintain a stable connection despite the satellite’s rapid movement across the sky.

4. Direct-to-Cell Technology
– AST’s system is designed  for direct-to-cell communication, meaning it’s optimised to work with the power levels and protocols of regular mobile phones without modification.
– They work within existing 4G and 5G standards, so a phone treats the satellite like just another cell tower.

5. Brief Connection Windows
– Because LEO satellites move quickly, a phone might only have a connection window of a few minutes as the satellite passes overhead.
– The system is designed to handover the connection to the next satellite seamlessly as it comes into range.

AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites and Starlink provide global connectivity, but they operate in fundamentally different ways:

Direct-to-Device vs. Dish-Based Connectivity – AST SpaceMobile offers direct-to-phone connectivity without requiring special equipment. Standard 4G/5G mobile phones can now connect directly to the satellites as if they were communicating with a traditional cell tower. Starlink Requires a dedicated satellite dish and a Wi-Fi router. It does not connect directly to mobile phones.

Orbit and Coverage AST SpaceMobile operates in Low Earth orbit at around 700 km. Its large phased-array satellites function as space-based cell towers extending the reach of mobile networks into remote areas. Starlink also uses LEO satellites but at a much lower altitude of 340km to 550 km. Starlink relies on a thousands of satellites to provide broadband internet.

Target Market and Use Case AST SpaceMobile: Focuses on eliminating mobile dead zones by enabling satellite-to-phone connectivity through partnerships with mobile network operators. Starlink Provides broadband internet primarily for*fixed and mobile users with Starlink terminals.

Bandwidth and Speed AST SpaceMobile speeds are around10 Mbps initially) suitable for voice, text, and light data applications Starlink offers high-speed broadband with speeds ranging from 50 Mbps to 250 Mbps for most users, with latency as low as 20-40ms.

Business Model AST SpaceMobile Works with mobile operators to extend their network coverage, charging them for satellite connectivity, which they then offer to customers as part of their service plans. Starlink Operates as an independent ISP directly selling internet access to consumers and businesses.

Key Takeaway For seamless mobile coverage anywhere with just a phone, AST SpaceMobile is the game-changer. For high-speed broadband for homes, vehicles, or remote locations, Starlink is the better option. 

]]> https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/vodafone-connects-first-space-video-call-ast-spacemobile-bluebird-satellites-using-standard-phone/feed/ 0 https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/virgin-media-starling-link-connectivty-remote-scottish-areas/ https://mobilenewscwp.co.uk/news/article/virgin-media-starling-link-connectivty-remote-scottish-areas/#respond Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:10:09 +0000 https://mncwp.tailrd.cloud/virgin-media-starling-link-connectivty-remote-scottish-areas/ Virgin Media O2 is using the Starlink constellation of low earth orbit satellites  to boost mobile services in most remote locations as part of the Shared Rural Network programme. Starlink’s LEO satellites will connect to phone masts unreachable with fibre optic cables or microwave to give connectivity to more rural communities. The Starlink mobile backhaul

There will be further partnerships between terrestrial network providers, which own most of the desirable spectrum and have access to a large subscriber base, and non-terrestrial providers. These joint ventures will tackle rural and remote black spots that terrestrial networks struggle to connect alone and will open new use cases like connected cars and industrial IoT.

To achieve this collaboration, satellite providers will move away from proprietary technology to fully support 3GPP standards, which is a crucial piece of the puzzle as we evolve towards the universal communications expected from 6G.”

This year we saw announcements from several satellite operators offering direct-to-device messaging connectivity, a welcome evolution from the recent focus on new fixed broadband satellite services from companies such as Starlink.

At significant announcement was from Apple and Globalstar who joined forces to offer direct-to-device connectivity on the iPhone 14 But even this had shortcomings. Another notable development was the failure of Qualcomm and Iridium’s partnership due to a lack of interest by handset vendors who which prefer solutions based on 3GPP standards.

Current satellite infrastructure is not cost-effective when supporting the high-bandwidth connectivity needed for the data services on our 4G or 5G phones. So providers like Globalstar are focusing on messaging and emergency voice services and basing these services on non-standard protocols, which don’t integrate with the current terrestrial cellular ecosystem.

This will begin to change next year as satellite operators shift their focus from messaging to a standards-based 5G NTN with ‘enhanced mobile broadband services’ including direct-to-handset.

I expect announcements from satellite operators on new LEO constellations based on 5G NR NTN (5G NR (New Radio Non-Terrestrial Networks) .

5G NR is the global standard for a unified, more capable 5G wireless air interface. It has been developed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) and is designed to support a wide variety of services, devices, and deployments.

It is characterised by higher speeds, reduced latency, and massive connectivity for devices. This will provide global coverage for consumer direct-to-handset and home broadband services.

Greater collaboration between terrestrial and non-terrestrial operators

These LEO constellations will enable better connectivity between satellites and handsets, making direct-to-device satellite connectivity a reality.

I also expect major handset companies to announce support for 5G NR NTN services in their flagship devices. Apple has traditionally been first off the blocks in adopting new use cases, but the jury is out on whether they will take the lead.” 

Incumbent broadband satellite operators will adopt 5G NTN standards to fight off new entrants. 5G NTN (5G Non-Terrestrial Networks) refers to a component of 5G networks that utilises satellites and other non-terrestrial means to provide communication services. This is a significant extension from traditional terrestrial-based networks, which rely on ground-based infrastructure like cell towers. Key aspects of 5G NTN are extended coverage, integration with terrestrial networks, support for applications, and global connectivity

The next generation of 5G NTNs will support the higher frequencies currently being used by Starlink and Amazon Kuiper for low-cost broadband services. Operators with high-throughput GEO constellations are facing stiff competition to react quickly and adopt the 5G NTN standard to replace their current DVB-S2X-based solutions (Digital Video Broadcasting – Satellite – Second Generation Extension).

DVB-S2 was introduced around 2005, as a significant improvement over its predecessor, DVB-S. It offered enhanced efficiency, reliability, and flexibility for satellite broadcasting, making it a popular choice for broadcasting HD television, satellite internet services, and other data transmission applications.

The next generation of 5G NTNs will enable operators to integrate seamlessly with terrestrial networks, open new use cases and tap into the larger low-cost standards-based device ecosystem. It will also give them an edge over the vertically-integrated new entrants, which depend on closed, bespoke solutions.”

Three is the fastest mobile network in the UK, according to independent switching site Broadband Genie which analysed over 400,000 speed tests, comparing 88 providers.

Three averaged a download speed of 50Mb, beating EE Mobile (41Mb), Sky Mobile (39Mb) and Vodafone Mobile (39Mb). O2 was last with a download speed of 20 MB.

In January network diagnostics company Ookla also said Three had the fastest 5G network in the latter half of last year.

“An average of 50Mb puts Three ahead of the 32Mb UK broadband average for all wireless broadband options. But there is a considerable gap between Three and the UK’s average for fixed-line services, which sits at 109Mb Three has experienced considerable growth in 2021 and 2022 compared to its competitors. This could hint that more customers are using the newer, faster 5G products” said Broadband Genie expert Alex Tofts.

“Three’s performance has proved it to be the fastest mobile provider in the UK. This is a huge upset. EE positions itself as the leading brand regarding speed and coverage, while Three has been the consumer champion regarding value.

“The gap between the fastest mobile networks and the fixed line average is not a million miles away. Mobile broadband offers a great option when a fixed-line service is not available. It also gives the customer the advantage of being able to take their connection with them, wherever they go. Mobile broadband contracts are usually available in shorter lengths, as well as pay-as-you-go options.

“However, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite broadband is head and shoulders above the competition when looking across the whole wireless broadband landscape. The service doesn’t come cheap, though. There’s a hefty £460 signing-up fee to get the hardware, with the monthly cost set at £75. This high barrier entry fee may put off some customers.”

Elon Musk will develop a smartphone alternative to Apple and Android if Twitter is banned from the App Store and Google Play. The world’s richest man told Twitter followers “I certainly hope it does not come to that, but, yes, if there is no other choice, I will make an alternative phone”

He was responding to video podcaster Liz Wheeler who said:
“Elon Musk should produce his own smartphone, Half the country would gladly ditch the biased and snooping iPhone and Android. The man builds rockets to Mars. A silly little smartphone should be easy right?”
Around 84 per cent of 20,339 people who voted in a Twitter poll said they would buy a Musk-designed phone

With a net worth of around $200 billion, Musk has the financial clout to bring to market an alternative to iOS and Android, But he will be mindful that Microsoft, no small player, lost around €8 billion attempting a third ecosystem with Windows Phone.
However, Musk has a unique selling proposition unavailable to Apple and Google. He owns the Starlink satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX.

This will provide global satellite Internet access service after 2023. Musk could produce a mobile device that would work anywhere in the world and which would not require a subscription to a mobile network. Indeed, it is likely he will have to develop a smartphone ecosystem to get Starlink to pay for itself