Virgin Media O2 Launches Europe’s First Satellite-to-Mobile Smartphone Service

LONDON, Feb. 26 (GeokHub) — Virgin Media O2 has launched Europe’s first satellite-to-mobile service, allowing customers to send text messages and access apps such as WhatsApp and Google Maps using standard smartphones in areas without traditional mobile coverage.

The new service, called O2 Satellite, uses the low-Earth orbit satellite network operated by SpaceX through its Starlink system. Priced at £3 per month (approximately $4.06), the offering automatically connects compatible smartphones to satellites when terrestrial mobile networks are unavailable.

Virgin Media O2 said the rollout increases its geographic coverage across Britain from 89% to 95% of landmass — effectively bringing mobile connectivity to remote regions that previously had no signal.

The company, jointly owned by Telefonica and Liberty Global, described the launch as a significant breakthrough in UK telecommunications.

Chief Executive Lutz Schuler called it a defining moment for British mobile connectivity.

“By launching O2 Satellite, we’ve become the first operator in Europe to launch a space-based mobile data service that, overnight, has brought new mobile coverage to an area around two-thirds the size of Wales for the first time,” Schuler said.

How the Service Works

When users travel outside traditional coverage zones — including rural countryside, mountains or coastal areas — compatible handsets automatically switch to satellite connectivity. Initially, the service will operate on Samsung’s latest devices, with further device expansion expected.

Users will be able to access messaging platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, along with weather and location-based services including Google Maps.

The service is designed particularly for travelers, hikers, climbers and those engaging in outdoor activities where signal blackspots are common.

Competitive Landscape

Satellite-to-mobile connectivity is emerging as the next frontier in telecom innovation.

In the United States, T-Mobile launched a similar satellite-to-cell service in 2025 priced at $10 per month.

Meanwhile, UK rival Vodafone successfully completed the first video call over satellite using a regular smartphone in January 2025. Vodafone plans to roll out a full satellite-to-mobile service in partnership with AST SpaceMobile, though a commercial launch date has not yet been announced.