Vodafone Ireland partners with Satellite Connect Europe to introduce seamless satellite connectivity
· Vodafone Ireland and Satellite Connect Europe working together to deliver direct-to-device mobile broadband coverage.
· Testing is under way after Vodafone secured Ireland’s first Test and Trial licence.
· Smartphones will have the ability to connect automatically to satellites when the mobile signal drops, ending coverage blackspots for consumers and supporting emergency services.
02 March 2026 – Vodafone Ireland, in partnership with Satellite Connect Europe, is preparing to make history with Ireland’s first direct-to-device satellite mobile broadband video call to a standard smartphone.
The partnership showcases Vodafone Ireland’s commitment to providing seamless, robust and reliable connectivity for Irish consumers, businesses and public services.
By integrating satellite capability directly into existing 4G and 5G networks, Vodafone Ireland and Satellite Connect Europe will enable smartphones to switch automatically between terrestrial and satellite signals. This will mean users stay connected seamlessly even in areas with no mobile coverage today.
This will help close longstanding coverage gaps, improving safety, supporting rural and remote communities, and enabling emergency services to maintain communications during severe weather, major incidents or cross border crises.
Vodafone Ireland supports the development of satellite services in Europe that operate in alignment with European regulatory frameworks and spectrum usage requirements. To support this, Satellite Connect Europe, Vodafone and other operators will work with EU institutions and Member States to develop a harmonised European framework for satellite D2D, including a simplified authorisation process.
Vodafone Ireland Network Director, Sheila Kavanagh, said:
“Vodafone’s focus is to get everyone connected, no matter where they are – this is critical, resilient technology that will have a fundamental impact on how we communicate, particularly for those most vulnerable in remote areas. This partnership with Satellite Connect Europe will, in time, help deliver universal connectivity, and provide robust communications infrastructure that can keep critical communications going in areas of no coverage or during adverse weather conditions.”
Satellite Connect Europe Managing Director, Meredith Sharples, said: “Vodafone Ireland’s ambition will deliver a world-leading connectivity experience for their customers – especially in the areas most affected by extreme weather. This partnership is another significant step forward for mobile customers in Europe and demonstrates the growing alignment behind Satellite Connect Europe.”
ENDS
For more information, contact:
Howard Jones
+44 7500 849 738
About Satellite Connect Europe
Luxembourg headquartered Satellite Connect Europe is a joint venture between Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile, created to deliver seamless, secure and resilient direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity for European Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). The company helps operators extend service reach while maintaining control of service experience, customer relationships, and all customer data. European-built and operated, Satellite Connect Europe supports Governments, operators and enterprises in strengthening Europe’s critical communications infrastructure.