Virgin Media O2 plans UK’s first satellite-to-mobile service with Starlink in 2026

Virgin Media O2 is pioneering the UK's first mobile service that automatically connects to Elon Musk's Starlink satellite network in areas lacking terrestrial mobile coverage, with a planned launch in early 2026. The service, named O2 Satellite, will initially support messaging and data applications, enabling smartphones to switch seamlessly to Starlink's low-Earth orbit satellites in rural and remote locations, though voice calls over satellite won't be available at launch. This initiative is part of a strategic, multi-year partnership leveraging Starlink's constellation of over 650 satellites to close connectivity gaps, particularly benefiting enterprises in sectors like logistics, utilities, and agriculture by facilitating remote asset management and workforce safety. Virgin Media O2 aims to expand its UK landmass coverage from 88% to over 95% within a year of launch, offering O2 Satellite as an optional monthly add-on service, with pricing yet to be announced. The move aligns with broader industry trends toward hybrid networks combining terrestrial 4G/5G and satellite technologies, and follows similar efforts by competitors such as Vodafone and BT, who are also exploring satellite mobile services. Virgin Media O2's CEO highlighted the partnership as a key innovation complementing ongoing investments to improve mobile network experiences across the UK.