Virgin Media O2 seals deal with Elon Musk firm to boost UK rural mobile coverage | Telecommunications industry

Virgin Media O2 has announced a “landmark” partnership with Elon Musk’s satellite company aimed at improving rural mobile network coverage.

The deal with Starlink Direct to Cell is said to be the first of its kind, leveraging the billionaire’s position as the world’s largest satellite-to-mobile constellation.

The service is scheduled to launch in the first half of 2026, making it the first UK operator to use Starlink’s 650-plus satellites to connect to compatible customer phones.

The new product, O2 Satellite, will allow customers to use messaging and data services in more rural areas. Voice and video calls will not be available initially.

Lutz Schüler, CEO of Virgin Media O2, said: “This UK-first partnership is another example of the innovations Virgin Media O2 is making to provide our customers with a better experience and peace of mind, alongside the £700 million investment we have already made in our mobile network this year.

“Starlink is a clear leader in this space, operating the world’s most advanced satellite constellation, making it the right partner to complement our existing coverage and support Virgin Media O2’s ambition to deliver reliable mobile connectivity across the UK.”

Telecoms Minister Liz Lloyd said: “This partnership demonstrates exactly how private sector innovation can deliver real benefits to 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.”

Earlier this year, the Guardian reported that some subscribers were voicing their frustration with Musk’s political machinations. In the UK, Starlink is mainly used by people and businesses in rural areas with poor broadband access, but there is also a minority of “preppers” and people buying the technology as Musk fans.

PA Media contributed to this report