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Mobile operator O2 (Virgin Media) has today announced that their new Direct-to-Device (D2D) based O2 Satellite service (here), which for just £3 extra per month enables normal Smartphones to connect to their mobile network via Starlink’s satellites, will be extended to work on Apple iPhones from tomorrow.
The service harnesses SpaceX’s global Starlink network in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to support a satellite based 4G mobile data (broadband) connection via part of the 1800MHz (B3) band, which enables connectivity in even some of the remotest parts of the UK. In addition, users also benefit from greater general resilience, at least when outside a building.
The new service, once applied, effectively boosted O2’s UK landmass mobile coverage from 89% to 95%, delivering a coverage uplift equivalent to an area around two thirds the size of Wales. The service is designed to complement O2’s existing mobile network, and customers will connect automatically when traditional cellular coverage is unavailable.
However, at launch in February 2026 it only supported a limited number of handsets, all of which were based off the Android operating system (mostly recent Samsung models). The service also had some other limitations, such as initially only being able to support text messaging and limited data connectivity across specific apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, Google Maps and more.
The good news today is that O2 will switch on its satellite mobile service for iPhone users tomorrow (Thursday 28th May 2026). But you’ll need at least an iPhone 13 to benefit.
Chris Bournes, Commercial Director at VMO2, said:
“Earlier this year, we made history with the switch on of O2 Satellite. Expanding the service to iPhone users is a major step forward in making this new, groundbreaking technology accessible to more customers. Whether you’re hiking, travelling or in a remote part of the UK, O2 Satellite helps ensure you can stay connected when you need it most.”
Compatible Apple devices:
iPhone 17 Pro Max, 17 Pro, 17, 17e,
iPhone Air
iPhone 16 Pro Max, 16 Pro, 16 Plus, 16, 16e
iPhone 15 Pro Max, 15 Pro, 15 Plus, 15
iPhone 14 Pro Max, 14 Pro, 14 Plus, 14
iPhone 13 Pro Max, 13 Pro, 13, 13 miniCompatible apps:
AccuWeather
AllTrails
Apple Compass
Apple Fitness
Apple Maps
Apple Messages
Apple Music
Apple Weather
BBC Weather
Google Maps
Messenger
X
Yahoo Mail