This initiative aims to improve connectivity for UK smartphone users, allowing them to make phone calls and send messages from previously unreachable mobile blackspots.

The proposal is designed to enhance mobile coverage in remote rural areas and provide backup options during mobile signal outages.

Ofcom highlighted several potential benefits, including backup coverage during outages, service for coastal ships and passengers, and enabling emergency calls in hard-to-reach areas.

If approved, these proposals could extend outdoor mobile coverage to encompass 100% of the UK landmass.

A consultation period with stakeholders is currently open until May 20, 2025, with authorization for direct-to-device calls expected to follow based on the feedback received.

Ofcom's proposal includes allowing mobile networks to utilize airwaves from satellite companies like Starlink, operated by SpaceX, to enhance connectivity.

Starlink currently offers near-total coverage across the UK, with some exceptions in northern areas of Scotland.

However, Starlink's service was reported to be at capacity in southeast England as of late 2024.

Other satellite broadband services, including OneWeb/Eutelsat and Amazon's Project Kuiper, are also available and have received approval from Ofcom for service in the UK.

In January 2025, Vodafone demonstrated the technology's potential by conducting the world's first satellite video call using a standard mobile phone in west Wales.

Recent smartphone models, such as the iPhone 14 series, Samsung Galaxy S25, and Google Pixel 9, have integrated satellite messaging capabilities, further supporting this initiative.

On March 25, 2025, the UK telecom regulator, Ofcom, proposed enabling direct-to-device satellite services for mobile phones, particularly targeting rural areas.