OQ Technology plans direct-to-smartphone demo with cellular spectrum

spacenews.com Jun 9, 2026

OQ Technology plans direct-to-smartphone demo with cellular spectrum

Curated by Shubham · TechCapsules · Jun 9, 2026

AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication

Luxembourg's OQ Technology plans to test direct-to-smartphone satellite connectivity in Germany using Telefonica Germany's cellular spectrum in 2027. The trial aims to demonstrate two-way messaging and voice capabilities between a small satellite and standard smartphones. This marks a challenge to U.S.-led services in the emerging market, as OQ Technology seeks to develop a sovereign and interoperable space-based mobile infrastructure in Europe. The company has partnered with Telefonica Germany to use its 2.6 gigahertz spectrum for the demonstration.

💡 Why It Matters

· The European Commission's proposal to reshape access to S-band spectrum could limit U.S.-based satellite operators, such as Viasat and EchoStar, while giving European companies like OQ Technology a competitive advantage.
· This could lead to a shift in the global satellite market, with European operators gaining more control over their own space-based mobile infrastructure.

Capsules Space

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