First UK phones to get satellite connectivity in signal blackspots announced

First UK phones to get satellite connectivity in signal blackspots announced

5 hours ago Share Save Zoe Kleinman Technology editor Share Save

Getty Images

Virgin Media O2 is set to become the first mobile network operator to offer UK customers automatic connectivity via satellite in places without phone signal. O2 Satellite will be an optional service due to launch in the first half of 2026, following a partnership with Elon Musk's satellite business Starlink to offer the service. The firm has not yet revealed how much it will cost, but it will be an additional fee to pay each month. Enabled smartphones will automatically switch to satellite coverage in parts of the UK where no terrestrial signal is available - such as rural areas - but those who sign up will not be able to make phone calls via satellite to begin with.

The service will only work with messaging, maps and location apps. O2 says this is because Starlink's current satellites do not support calls, although the next generation of them will. Calls made via WhatsApp, which uses data rather than phone signal, may work though. O2 intends to trial this before the service launches to the public. The satellites will effectively act like "phone masts in the sky", said Luke Pearce from analyst CCS Insight. "In today's world, connectivity is no longer optional," he said. "Whether it's emergency SOS in life-saving situations or keeping a software-defined vehicle online, people now expect constant access." Software-defined vehicles can receive over-the-air updates to improve their performance and features, but need internet connections to be able to do so. "Satellite is the only technology that can truly close the coverage gap across mountains, oceans and rural areas," Mr Pearce added.

Satellite battle takes off