Telekommunikation und Konnektivität

European Telecoms Giants Mull Sovereign Satellite Network

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodaphone have signed a letter of intent to create a common European framework for satellite-to-smartphone connectivity.

The four leading telecommunications companies have announced they will explore a joint bid for Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) spectrum in Europe to improve mobile coverage and strengthen the continent’s digital sovereignty.

The frequencies in question are set to be auctioned off by the European Union next year and become available for use in 2029.

The move comes amidst worries about potential competition from Elon Musk’s SpaceX  for so-called direct-to-device (D2D) customers. Another motivation is the planned decommissioning Germany’s 2G network in 2028.

Sources: Spiegel, Telecomlead