Countries around the world are rapidly adapting regulatory frameworks to accommodate direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services, recognizing the critical role of spectrum allocation in the technology's growth.
Prompted by a surge in industry interest and potential market expansion, no fewer than 10 nations, including the U.S., Canada, Ghana, and the U.K., are moving to integrate D2D into their mobile spectrum policies, balancing the demands of satellite operators and mobile network providers. This wave of regulatory changes underscores an eagerness to address spectrum scarcity ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27).
The article outlines three anticipated regulatory approaches to D2D spectrum allocation. The first involves a primary allocation for D2D, emphasizing integration of satellite services into existing mobile networks. The second scenario considers a shared-use model, facilitating collaboration between mobile and satellite providers. The third, more conservative scenario, focuses on protecting current mobile spectrum while allowing limited satellite use.