Virgin Media O2 will introduce an optional satellite-enabled mobile service in the first half of 2026, partnering with SpaceX’s Starlink to extend connectivity to parts of the UK with no terrestrial signal.

Branded O2 Satellite, the service will initially support messaging, maps and location apps, with voice and traditional video calls not available at launch. WhatsApp calls may work and will be trialled ahead of rollout. The operator says internal trials are under way and pricing will be announced closer to launch.

The company expects the partnership to lift its UK landmass coverage to more than 95 per cent within 12 months of launch, using Starlink’s low-earth orbit constellation of more than 650 satellites that act like phone masts in the sky. Enabled smartphones will switch automatically to satellite when no standard mobile signal is present, providing reassurance for customers travelling or working in remote areas.

“This UK-first partnership is another example of Virgin Media O2 innovating to provide a better experience and peace of mind for our customers on top of the £700 million we are already investing in our mobile network this year,” said Lutz Schüler, the company’s chief executive officer. “Starlink is a clear leader in this space, operating the world’s most advanced satellite constellation, which makes it the right partner to complement our existing coverage and support Virgin Media O2’s ambition to deliver reliable mobile connectivity across the UK.”

Liz Lloyd, the telecoms minister, welcomed the move. “This partnership demonstrates exactly how private sector innovation can deliver real benefits for people across the UK, supporting our mission to drive growth and ensure no community is left behind. Whether you’re running a farm in Cumbria or hiking in the Cairngorms, you’ll soon have the peace of mind that comes with reliable coverage.”

Industry analysts say satellite-to-device services can close coverage gaps across mountains, coasts and sparsely populated regions. “Satellite is the only technology that can truly close the coverage gap across mountains, oceans and rural areas,” said Luke Pearce of CCS Insight, noting demand for constant access from emergency features and connected vehicles.

The announcement follows Vodafone’s separate test of a live video call via satellite from a Welsh mountain using partner AST, which has six satellites and targets up to 60 by the end of 2026. Ofcom adjusted rules in September to enable satellite connectivity directly to smartphones, though at present most UK users can only text emergency services from newer devices. Astronomers have raised concerns that low-earth orbit constellations clutter the night sky and complicate hazard detection.

Virgin Media O2 says app support for O2 Satellite will expand over time as next-generation Starlink satellites come online, bringing improved performance and new use cases.

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