Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone have signed a Letter of Intent to explore a joint bid for future spectrum allocated to Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) in Europe. The four operators issued the same joint announcement yesterday, on 19 October 2026.
Satellite coverage for ordinary phones
The overall aim is to enable mobile operators to offer Direct-to-Device (D2D) services, which connect standard smartphones straight to satellites.
The plan targets “dead zones” or “white spots”, remote places where mobile phones get no signal at all today, not even on the oldest, slowest 2G connection. In those areas, satellites could fill the gap where building mobile masts is not practical.
The operators say they want to meet demand for universal coverage in underserved areas, strengthen the resilience of public networks, protect critical communications and support a European satellite constellation.
Open access for all operators
The operators state that securing the spectrum would give every mobile network operator open and non-discriminatory access to D2D services. The concept is based on a model designed to encourage competition, reduce market fragmentation and widen consumer choice across Europe. The four organisations link the plan to that of the European Commission’s ambition to strengthen the continent’s sovereignty, security and resilience in critical connectivity infrastructure.
More emphasis on ground infrastructure
The four operators plan to establish key ground network infrastructure and critical coordination and monitoring functions in Europe, but not to invest directly in a satellite constellation. A separate satellite partner, not the four signing the letter of intent, is an option, and is still to be identified and potentially vetted or selected. The companies say the pairing would combine European governance and market access with proven satellite technology.
Existing partnerships stay in place
The Letter of Intent does not replace existing satellite partnerships. It is a signal of intent, a step towards a possible bid. No licence has been awarded in connection with the project.
Timing
According to current reports, the frequencies being sought by the four operators are likely to become available in 2029 and are currently used for services such as in-flight internet connections. It is worth noting that most smartphones do not have D2D capability built in, however it is expected to reach the mass market in the coming years.
