Vodafone has conducted the UK's inaugural satellite-enabled smartphone video call from a mountain in Ceredigion, west Wales. The aim is to integrate satellite connectivity into its UK network by the end of this year and expand across Europe by 2026.
Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone's CEO, believes this move can address the issue of "not spots" - areas lacking mobile signal, which Ofcom estimates to cover 9% of the UK. However, experts emphasize the need to overcome regulatory challenges and launch more satellites to fully implement the service.
Although satellite connectivity allows regular phones to function with complete internet access in signal-deprived areas, the current emergency satellite connectivity on many iPhones and Android devices is limited to text messages. Vodafone's successful video call marks a significant step towards universal connectivity, with Ms. Della Valle referring to satellites as "antennas in the sky."
Vodafone assures that users will not need additional equipment as the service expands, but the pricing structure for customers is yet to be determined. Partnering with AST SpaceMobile, a satellite company with a small satellite fleet, Vodafone must establish a comprehensive satellite constellation for consistent coverage.
Concerns have arisen among astronomers over the increasing number of low earth satellites interfering with astronomical observations. While astronaut Tim Peake sees potential in expanding satellite deployment, others stress the importance of regulating satellite launches to safeguard the space environment and astronomical research.