Four major European telecom carriers—Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone—are joining forces in a joint bid for spectrum to build a direct-to-device satellite network competing with SpaceX's Starlink. The carriers would manage ground infrastructure while an unannounced satellite partner provides the space segment, aiming to deliver universal coverage and strengthen network resilience across Europe.
Background
Starlink's direct-to-device satellite service has emerged as a major competitor to traditional cellular networks, prompting other telecom players to seek alternatives. The European Union has been actively pushing for greater strategic autonomy in satellite communications.
- Source
- The Verge
- Published
- Oct 19, 2026 at 10:24 PM
- Score
- 7.0 / 10