- VodafoneThree is the latest operator to give permission to use satellite technology to cover non-spots
- O2 has already given EE permission to work with Starlink
- Handset regulations need to be updated as well as operator licenses
Ofcom has confirmed it has approved a request from VodafoneThree to change one of the spectrum licenses it holds, which would mean it can provide ‘direct-to-device’ satellite connectivity to mobile phones.
The newly merged companies would be able to deliver calls, texts and data to standard smartphones in the UK, making it much more akin to regular mobile service rather than Apple’s satellite-based SOS features.
Satellite connectivity will play an important role in closing gaps in today’s current infrastructure and providing signal where there is no signal.
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VodafoneThree has given permission to use satellites
VodafoneThree is not the only company to have received such permission – O2 was also given the green light earlier in 2026.
“By launching O2 Satellite, we have become the first operator in Europe to launch a space-based mobile data service, bringing new mobile coverage overnight to an area around two-thirds the size of Wales for the first time,” boasted VMO2 CEO Lutz Schuler as the company launched satellite connections to some early supported Samsung devices.
However, there may be more at stake before satellite connectivity becomes commonplace. Ofcom said that while awarding operator licenses is one part, as it has done twice this year, it is also due to change its handset rules following public consultation over the next month.
In the US, T-Mobile has already launched a satellite-to-cell service for an additional $10 monthly fee.
As for the UK’s only other mainline operator, EE announced a partnership with Starling in late 2025 to tackle so-called ‘non-spots’ across the UK as soon as the second half of 2026.
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