Virgin Media O2 has announced plans to introduce O2 Satellite, a new service that will allow customers to automatically connect to satellites in areas without mobile signal. The launch, expected in the first half of 2026, will follow a multi-year partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink.

Accoring to Virgin Media O2, the service will initially support messaging and data, enabling compatible smartphones to switch automatically to Starlink’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network when there is no terrestrial coverage. It will provide connectivity in remote parts of the UK – such as rural or coastal regions – and aims to improve coverage for customers travelling or working in areas known as “not-spots.”

Voice calls will not be supported at launch, as Starlink’s current satellites do not yet enable standard mobile calling. However, Virgin Media O2 plans to test whether internet-based calling through apps such as WhatsApp will work before rollout. Future generations of Starlink satellites are expected to support phone calls directly.

O2 Satellite will be offered as an optional service for an additional monthly fee, with pricing details to be confirmed closer to launch.

Virgin Media O2 said the initiative is intended to complement its existing mobile network and expand its landmass coverage to more than 95% within 12 months of launch.

“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, CEO of Virgin Media O2.

“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.”

The operator is currently trialling the service internally, with wider rollout to customers planned for early 2026. The service will use Starlink’s Direct to Cell network, which operates more than 650 satellites in LEO. Virgin Media O2 said app compatibility will expand over time, starting with messaging, maps and location services.

Mike Nicolls, Starlink’s Vice President of Engineering, said: “We’re excited to bring a satellite-to-mobile network to the UK with Virgin Media O2.

“This partnership underscores the importance of Starlink Direct to Cell’s mission to end mobile dead zones and deliver connectivity in remote areas where it wasn’t possible before. Whether it’s checking real-time weather updates, sharing a video with friends, or simply sending a text, people can stay connected when they need it most.”

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The UK Government also welcomed the move. Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd said: “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.”

Virgin Media O2 previously collaborated with Starlink to provide satellite broadband backhaul for its Shared Rural Network rollout, which aims to extend mobile coverage in hard-to-reach areas.

The company’s announcement follows Vodafone’s successful live video call via satellite from a mountain in Wales earlier this year, conducted in partnership with AST SpaceMobile. Vodafone has not yet confirmed plans for a commercial rollout.

With Ofcom having updated its rules in September to allow satellite connectivity directly to smartphones, the UK has opened the door to new satellite-enabled mobile services. Currently, satellite access is limited to emergency messaging from newer iPhone and Android devices.

However, astronomers have raised concerns about the environmental impact of growing satellite constellations, warning that the increasing number of LEO satellites contributes to light pollution and may hinder the detection of near-Earth objects.

Virgin Media O2 said further details, including pricing and device compatibility, will be shared closer to launch.