O2 customers to get Starlink powered 'notspot' coverage with O2 Satellite

So, there was a genuine bit of interesting news in the mobile industry today. It's not often that my eyebrows are raised and I think, "oh, tell me more," when I see an industry press release.

This one today from O2 was different.

They're announcing an agreement with Starlink to ensure that Virgin Media O2 customers in areas with limited or no coverage (i.e. 'notspots') will instead be offered connectivity via Starlink.

The service will be called O2 Satellite.

Here are the key points from the press release:

• Virgin Media O2 and Starlink Direct to Cell have agreed a multi-year partnership that is set to boost the operator’s mobile coverage using Starlink satellite technology
• The new product which will be called O2 Satellite will initially offer messaging and data services, with further improvements set to follow, giving customers reassurance and peace of mind when in remote areas
• The service will provide coverage in previous not spots, with the aim to bring Virgin Media O2’s landmass coverage in the UK to 95%+ in the 12 months following launch
• The operator is currently running internal trials of the technology, with it launching for customers in the first half of 2026

How exactly will this work? Well, here's a bit of a hint:

The operator is the first in the UK to utilise Starlink’s leading position as the world’s largest and only satellite-to-mobile constellation with 650+ satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to deliver connectivity straight to devices using a portion of O2’s licensed mobile spectrum.

Brilliant.

I didn't see any specific mention on device compatibility. Indeed, I'm speculating that the above paragraph ("licensed mobile spectrum") would indicate things should be totally seamless for customers – like moving from a 4G to a 5G signal as you move about.

Irrespective, I think this is really, really good news.

Anything that boosts the possibility of nigh-on ubiquitous connectivity is great news.

It's only when you don't have signal that you realise just how many things need or rely on you having some kind of continual connectivity at hand.

I think it's good that Virgin Media O2 is exploring and experimenting. You see, like many, I've been waiting for someone to do a "WhatsApp" to the mobile operators – that is, go over-the-top of them.. and I do mean OVER... and simply offer me a $50/£50 unlimited global roaming service via Starlink and then partner with a local operator for ultra local service provision, meanwhile most of my connectivity needs will be provided by the likes of Starlink or Amazon's rumoured competitor (see my post on this a little while ago).

Nice work Team Virgin Media O2. I'll be watching with interest.

If, like me, you'd like more updates from O2 Satellite, you can sign-up for updates via the link here: o2.co.uk/satellite.