Consultation: Enabling satellite direct to device services in Mobile spectrum bands

This page sets out decisions, and further consultation proposals, to authorise the use of spectrum bands used by the UK’s Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) for satellite Direct to Device (D2D) services.

D2D services are designed to provide satellite connectivity to mass market mobile phones in areas not covered by terrestrial mobile networks. They have the potential to increase outdoor geographic coverage and provide a basic backup service in the event of outages on the terrestrial networks.

Enabling satellite D2D services in the UK could improve connectivity for consumers and businesses, particularly in remote areas, enhance resilience and access to emergency services; support investment and innovation, as D2D may unlock new uses of IoT devices; and open new opportunities for mobile network operators (MNO) to use their licensed spectrum holdings more intensively.

In March 2025, we consulted on proposals to introduce a spectrum authorisation framework to enable D2D services in spectrum bands below 3 GHz, that are currently licensed to UK MNOs.

Having sought stakeholder input on our proposals, this document sets out (i) the decisions we are taking to implement our framework; (ii) the notice of Proposed Regulations, and (iii) further consultation on proposed technical conditions to protect Air Traffic Control (ATC) radars from potential interference from D2D services operating in the 2.6 GHz band, and the non-technical and technical conditions which we would include in the MNO licence variation.

Use of radio equipment in the UK is unlawful if not licensed or otherwise exempt from the need to hold a licence under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006. Therefore, Ofcom now proposes to make legislation in the form of a statutory instrument which would generally authorise the use of mobile handsets and other SIM-enabled devices when using D2D services. The statutory instrument takes the form of exemption regulations, which authorise such use, under section 8 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2003. Ofcom welcomes all comments on this proposal on the draft regulations.

Responding to this consultation