GSMA: Why Satellite-to-Phone is Telecom’s Next Frontier

Once dismissed as science fiction, direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity is quickly moving from the experimental stage to a mainstream expectation in mobile services.

With operators such as T-Mobile, Verizon and AT&T already testing and switching on satellite-backed services, the GSMA – which represents nearly every major mobile carrier worldwide – is calling for urgent regulatory alignment before services scale further.

John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer at GSMA, highlights the promise and challenges: “Direct-to-device satellite connectivity has the potential to extend the reach of mobile, strengthen resilience and deliver real societal benefits.

“But without careful and balanced regulation, it risks disrupting the very mobile services that billions of people rely on every day.

“Our guidelines are designed to help governments embrace innovation while protecting the foundations of the mobile ecosystem.”

Balancing frequencies with continuity

The GSMA’s proposal centres on making efficient use of spectrum while maintaining service continuity.

It illustrates that if satellites are going to beam coverage to consumer devices, spectrum access needs to be controlled in a way that prevents interference with today’s mobile networks.

Two routes currently dominate the conversation. The first is the use of IMT spectrum.

The path is already widely utilised by carriers and has the significant advantage of working with standard mobile devices, requiring no additional hardware.

It is the model supporting initial partnerships such as the T-Mobile and Starlink trials.

The second option is the use of mobile satellite service (MSS) spectrum, which is harmonised internationally but still heavily reliant on purpose-built hardware.

Presently, MSS capability is confined to a narrow set of high-end devices, presenting scalability challenges.

MNO-led integration and coexistence

According to the GSMA, the most effective way forward is for mobile network operators (MNOs) to have direct oversight of satellite partnerships and service delivery.

The association highlights that integration should be led by MNOs through their existing spectrum licences, rather than introducing new and competing rights for satellite providers.

It would allow carriers to make flexible decisions on when and how to extend reach through satellite coverage, whether that is enhancing connectivity for rural households or keeping hikers safe in remote areas.

However, as the GSMA notes, spectrum sharing will remain a complex challenge.

It further calls on regulators to focus on safeguards that ensure services coexist smoothly with terrestrial networks.

The road to WRC-27

The policy backdrop is equally critical.

The ITU’s World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27) will define long-term global rules on satellite-to-device connectivity.

The GSMA insists that waiting until 2027 to create clarity carries a high risk.

The paper calls for interim national frameworks so operators, satellite firms and regulators can test service models under predictable conditions.

“This is about ensuring connectivity evolves in a way that is reliable for the billions of customers we already serve, while creating space for innovation,” the GSMA notes.

Without transitional measures, countries may face fragmented policies that complicate international roaming and drive up costs for all players.

A framework gaining momentum

In significant developments, UK regulator Ofcom is already moving ahead with a practical authorisation framework for D2D satellite services in the country.

Ofcom’s consultation highlights preferred licensing arrangements that would place satellite connectivity under mobile operator spectrum licences, allowing handset exemptions under specified technical conditions.

The approach aligns with GSMA’s vision of smooth integration under MNO oversight, aiming to make satellite-supplemented mobile service a standard feature by late 2025 or 2026.

The regulator proposes strict power limits and interference safeguards alongside conditions for cross-border coordination, signalling a pragmatic path for other countries to follow.

Standard expectations for consumers

For end users, the GSMA’s push ultimately aims to make D2D connectivity seamless, a future where satellite-based coverage feels no different from existing network experiences such as VoLTE or Wi‑Fi calling.

The vision is a universal mobile service that functions wherever consumers travel, without forcing trade-offs between expansion and reliability.

For operators and regulators, the key lies in achieving a delicate balance: granting satellite services enough freedom to grow while preserving the integrity of terrestrial mobile networks.

With sectoral giants already trialling live deployments, the debate over spectrum pathways and policy responsibility is no longer theoretical;  it is a pressing dilemma for the global telecoms ecosystem.