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Europe's Own Sat-Phone Service Takes Aim at US Rivals
8 Jun
Summary
- OQ Technology will test direct-to-smartphone satellite calls in Germany next year.
- The trial uses Telefonica Germany's cellular spectrum for two-way messaging and voice.
- This initiative aims to establish Europe's independent satellite-based mobile infrastructure.
OQ Technology, based in Luxembourg, is set to test direct-to-smartphone satellite connectivity in Germany during the first half of 2027. This demonstration will utilize Telefonica Germany's cellular spectrum to enable two-way messaging and voice services using standard, unmodified smartphones.
The trial aims to establish Europe's sovereign and interoperable space-based mobile infrastructure, directly competing with emerging U.S.-led services. OQ Technology's CEO, Omar Qaise, emphasized the collaboration's importance for European operators and satellite companies in developing next-generation connectivity solutions.
This initiative follows SpaceX's advancements in direct-to-device (D2D) technology and its partnerships across Europe. The German test will focus on evaluating coverage, interference management, and service optimization using Telefonica Germany's 2.6 GHz spectrum.
Previously, OQ Technology successfully transmitted emergency messages using S-band spectrum. Future plans include deploying dedicated satellites for D2D services in 2027 and testing C-band for enhanced bandwidth later in 2026. The company also has defense applications in mind, including satellite connectivity for drones.
