MWC26: Vodafone launches satellite connect Europe to expand direct-to-mobile coverage
Date: 2026-03-03
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Vodafone
has unveiled a new satellite initiative aimed at extending mobile connectivity
beyond traditional terrestrial networks, marking a significant step in its
expansion into space-based communications.
Speaking at MWC Barcelona, Group Chief Executive
Officer Margherita Della Valle highlighted the growing role of satellite
technology in enabling users to make voice and video calls, send messages, and
access the internet using existing mobile phones, regardless of location. She
emphasized that satellite capabilities represent a new frontier for the
telecommunications industry.
Vodafone has launched Satellite Connect Europe in partnership with AST SpaceMobile. The open-access platform is designed to allow European mobile network operators to extend coverage safely and securely, while remaining compliant with local regulations. Operators including Orange, Telefónica and 3 Group have joined the initiative.
Della Valle noted that the expansion
of satellite-based connectivity must be accompanied by clear safety and
security frameworks, as well as strong international coordination, to maintain
trust and protect customers. She stressed that collaboration across the
industry is essential to ensure responsible development of space-based
communications infrastructure.
The
announcement underscores Vodafone’s strategy to integrate satellite technology
into its broader connectivity ecosystem, with the goal of delivering seamless
coverage across land, sea and remote environments.
