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UK Proposes Satellite Direct-to-Device Services for Rural Areas

Residents in the rural regions of the UK may soon benefit from the ability to make satellite calls, send messages, and use data through their mobile devices. On Tuesday, the UK’s telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, put forth a proposal to implement direct-to-device satellite technology aimed at connecting individuals in the country’s most remote and challenging locations, such as mountainous terrains and isolated villages.

Ofcom envisions this technology as a complement to existing mobile networks, with the goal of achieving universal mobile coverage across the UK. The regulator highlighted that the implementation of direct-to-device satellite services could also function as a backup during network outages. Additionally, it could provide connectivity for maritime users and ensure emergency services, such as the 999 system—the UK equivalent of 911—are accessible in hard-to-reach areas.

In a notable advancement, Vodafone, a British telecommunications company, successfully conducted the first satellite video call from a conventional mobile phone in a remote location in west Wales earlier this year.

From a regulatory standpoint, Ofcom is considering changes to existing mobile spectrum licenses, particularly for frequencies that cellular providers are already using (below 3 GHz). The regulator has also suggested alternative strategies, which include establishing new licensing categories for satellite services or permitting license-free use under specific conditions. Ofcom emphasized that stringent guidelines would be enforced to prevent potential interference with current spectrum users, both domestically and internationally.

A consultation period is now underway, allowing stakeholders to provide input until May 20. Based on the responses received, Ofcom may initiate the authorization process for direct-to-device satellite calls later this year.

The trend toward satellite connectivity in mobile devices is gaining momentum. The iPhone 14 was the first mainstream smartphone to introduce direct-to-satellite emergency messaging. In the upcoming iOS 18, Apple plans to broaden this functionality to cover more scenarios beyond urgent situations, enhancing access for users in remote areas. Similarly, the Samsung Galaxy S25 series and Google Pixel 9 have recently incorporated comparable capabilities.

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