Four major European carriers plan joint satellite phone service to rival Starlink

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone have signed a letter of intent to explore a joint bid for spectrum supporting direct-to-device satellite service in Europe. The initiative is aimed at competing with SpaceX's Starlink in this market. The companies would manage the ground infrastructure, while a satellite partner that has not yet been named would supply the satellite constellation. According to the carriers, the goals include extending coverage to underserved areas, improving the resilience of public networks, and safeguarding critical communications.