Ofcom has announced proposals that will enable smartphone users to make satellite calls.
Direct-to-device technology enables space satellites to beam signals straight to standard smartphones, so they can make calls, send texts and connect to the Internet when there is no coverage from mobile masts on the ground.
Previously, mobile satellite services from space have mainly been available to a niche group of users – for example, on ships and aircraft – with specialist handsets that can be expensive.
If this service was more widely available, it would help connect the UK’s most rural and hard-to-reach places.
Ofcom is proposing to allow mobile networks and satellite operators to use mobile airwaves – called radio spectrum – to connect mainstream handsets in the UK.
David Willis, Ofcom’s spectrum group director, said, “Ofcom always strives to be at the forefront of technological change, and we’re the first country in Europe to press ahead with the next frontier in mobile connectivity. This would unlock investment, open doors to innovation and growth, and bring much-needed mobile coverage to rural areas.”
In January, Vodafone made a satellite video call using a standard mobile phone up a mountain in west Wales where there was no coverage. This was made possible by Ofcom issuing an innovation and trial licence.
This new technology would complement existing terrestrial networks and could eventually result all of the UK having mobile coverage, unlocking the potential of the most rural and remote communities.
It could also be used in the UK’s coastal waters, meaning better-connected ships and passengers, or for back-up mobile coverage during power outages, and to improve emergency 999 services in remote locations.
Under the proposals, Ofcom would authorise these direct-to-device services using a range of frequencies that are already used by the mobile sector, and there would be strict conditions attached to avoid interference.
To ensure that the conditions are followed, Ofcom is considering three authorisation approaches. Its preferred approach is to amend the licences already held by mobile network operators and to create an accompanying exemption for mobile handsets connecting to these services. Alternatively, it could introduce a new licence for these services or permit licence exempt use subject to specific conditions being met.
Ofcom’s consultation on these proposals closes on 20 May. Subject to the feedback that the regulator receives, it could potentially make its decision and begin authorising direct-to-device services later this year.