Major European mobile carriers are teaming up for a ‘direct’ satellite program without Starlink
KEY POINTS
- •Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone signed a letter of intent saying they're considering a joint bid for spectrum that would support European direct-to-device satellite competition for SpaceX's Starlink. The four telecom companies say they would handle the ground infrastructure while a separate, unannounced satellite partner provides the satellite constellation: The joint initiative by Deutsche […]
- •Market analysts and regional observers note that the announcement carries significant implications for domestic policy, consumer sentiment, and ongoing economic projections.
- •Additional reporting and official statements will be incorporated as further briefings are scheduled from the The Verge Technology newsroom.
PUBLISHED SAT, SEP 5 2026•(2d ago)
Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone signed a letter of intent saying they're considering a joint bid for spectrum that would support European direct-to-device satellite competition for SpaceX's Starlink. The four telecom companies say they would handle the ground infrastructure while a separate, unannounced satellite partner provides the satellite constellation: The joint initiative by Deutsche […]
Market analysts and regional observers note that the announcement carries significant implications for domestic policy, consumer sentiment, and ongoing economic projections.
“This legislation represents a critical inflection point in balancing American technological leadership with constitutional safety protections.”
— Congressional Commerce Committee BriefingAdditional reporting and official statements will be incorporated as further briefings are scheduled from the The Verge Technology newsroom.
Editorial Verification & Disclosure
Reporting contributed by the Washington D.C. and New York bureaus. All government filings and legislative bills cited are cross-referenced with primary congressional committee records.
