The UK telecoms regulator, Ofcom, has announced plans to become the first in Europe to approve Direct to Device (D2D) satellite services for use within standard mobile spectrum bands on regular smartphones.
This development aims to enhance mobile coverage, particularly in remote areas, by enabling smartphones to connect directly to satellites, thereby improving 4G and 5G connectivity and roaming capabilities.
Several satellite broadband providers, including Starlink (with its Direct to Cell service) and AST SpaceMobile, are actively developing solutions that allow unmodified consumer smartphones to connect directly to satellites using existing mobile spectrum. Notably, some newer phones, such as recent iPhone models, already have basic satellite communication features designed primarily for emergencies. However, current UK licenses held by mobile operators do not authorise space-based transmissions, which has limited the deployment of such services.
Ofcom has acknowledged these developments and confirmed that it will introduce a new authorisation framework to permit satellite-to-device communications within terrestrial mobile bands. This change could significantly expand coverage, especially in rural and coastal regions, and serve as a backup during terrestrial network outages or emergencies. The regulator believes it can address potential interference issues — such as conflicts with air traffic control radar — through appropriate technical conditions.
In a statement, Ofcom outlined its intentions, emphasising its goal to enable the benefits of D2D satellite services for UK consumers by early 2026. The regulator plans to require mobile network operators (MNOs) to modify their existing licenses via a variation process and establish new exemption regulations that will allow end users to legally connect to D2D services. Ofcom is currently consulting on these proposed exemption regulations and technical safeguards, with a specific focus on protecting radar systems operating in the 2.6 GHz band.
Ofcom also invites stakeholders, including mobile operators, to submit their views and request license variations tailored to their specific spectrum bands — particularly those licensed below 3 GHz to operators like EE, Vodafone, Three UK, and O2. The regulator’s consultation period runs until 5 pm on October 10, 2025.
This initiative is seen as particularly beneficial for enhancing connectivity in hard-to-reach rural areas, along coastlines, and in emergency situations. Some operators, such as Vodafone in partnership with AST SpaceMobile, are exploring the possibility of offering satellite-based connectivity features as premium services, including global and domestic roaming enhancements.
