At MWC26, SpaceX introduced Starlink Mobile, marking a new era in satellite communications. This evolution of the direct-to-device strategy uses second-generation satellites to enhance integration with 5G networks. Starlink Mobile is set to elevate connectivity, offering speeds up to 150 Mb/s, filling gaps left by traditional networks.
At the Mobile World Congress 2026, Vodafone’s CEO Margherita Della Valle stressed the critical need for safety standards in satellite communications. As VoIP integrates with satellite networks, it’s vital to establish rules that protect trust and ensure security. Collaborative efforts by leading operators can prevent a chaotic industry landscape.
Virgin Media O2 has launched an innovative O2 Satellite service, utilizing Starlink technology from SpaceX to enhance mobile connectivity in remote areas, called ‘not-spots’. This new service, boosting UK landmass coverage from 89% to 95%, allows users to seamlessly switch from mobile to satellite connectivity when traditional networks are unavailable.
The groundbreaking collaboration between Fujitsu and Yamaguchi University is paving the way for enhanced satellite data management through orbital edge computing. This innovative approach dramatically reduces satellite data latency from hours to mere minutes, facilitating real-time insights crucial for industries such as maritime logistics. By processing data directly on satellites, traditional bandwidth restrictions are bypassed, allowing for immediate information access. Organizations dependent on remote sensing, including those utilizing VoIP technology for communication, should closely monitor this advancement, as it promises to revolutionize data processing efficiency and timeliness.
T-Mobile has launched T-Satellite, a direct-to-device service using Starlink’s satellites, to combat notorious ‘not spots’ in the US and beyond. The service, supporting over 60 smartphones, integrates with T-Mobile’s premium plans.
Rogers Communications has launched Canada’s first satellite-to-mobile service, bringing connectivity to remote regions. Using low Earth orbit satellites and national wireless spectrum, the service enables texting and emergency access where traditional networks fail.
One NZ has surpassed 2 million messages sent via its Starlink-powered satellite texting service, Satellite TXT. As the first to launch in New Zealand, usage has soared—especially after opening access to prepaid users. With fast delivery and wide coverage, it offers vital connectivity in remote areas.
Luxembourg’s advanced digital infrastructure makes it an ideal headquarters for SatCo, the joint venture between Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile. This strategic move aims to deliver direct-to-device satellite broadband across Europe, enhancing digital sovereignty.
T-Mobile will launch its T-Satellite NTN on July 23, expanding satellite-to-cellular service to areas without terrestrial coverage. With 1.8 million beta users already active, the service enables seamless messaging on existing devices. Future features include multimedia messaging and emergency texting, even for non T-Mobile customers.
France has struck a major deal with Eutelsat to boost military satellite communications using OneWeb’s LEO constellation. The agreement supports urgent defense needs ahead of Europe’s IRIS2 system and could raise France’s stake in Eutelsat to 30 percent.
