VodafoneThree gets green light for satellite smartphone connectivity

Ofcom has today announced that it has approved the request by VodafoneThree to provide satellite connectivity direct-to-device (D2D) in the UK. This follows on from O2, which launched its O2 Satellite service earlier this year. The approval comes in the form of allowing a license variation, which enables VodafoneThree to use its 900 MHz spectrum to offer D2D services between phones and satellites.

This change also comes with a consultation on making changes to the Wireless Telegraphy Regulations, which will approve this. Regulations were updated in February 2026 to allow O2 to use frequencies from their 1800 MHz spectrum to be exempt from the requirement to be licensed when used for D2D services. To use the 900 MHz spectrum proposed, Ofcom will add these frequencies to the relevant regulation exemptions and also provide the technical parameters around their use.

VodafoneThree announced previously that they intend to start customer trials in the summer of 2026, and their satellite service will enable the use of data, voice and SMS. The company are using Bluebird satellites, which are in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), similar to Starlink, but are operated by AST Space Mobile. The two companies have a joint venture, which recently announced its new branding as Satellite Connect Europe.