GSMA Publishes Satellite Regulatory Playbook for LEO and D2D Services
The GSMA has published its Satellite Regulatory Playbook aiming to help policymakers modernise frameworks for emerging low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services, including satellite broadband and direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity.
The guide has been aimed at regulators who are assessing whether existing rules are keeping pace with rapid advances in satellite constellations and direct-to-user services. It provides a practical framework for countries looking to update legacy satellite rules or develop new regimes suited to newer LEO-based connectivity models.
The Playbook focuses on regulatory issues relevant to satellite broadband and D2D services, including models where satellite providers serve users directly without partnerships with mobile network operators. This is increasingly important as LEO networks expand from fixed broadband into mobile-adjacent services, emergency connectivity and smartphone-based satellite access.
The GSMA identifies eight core regulatory themes: local establishment rules, national security, consumer protection, infrastructure requirements, end-user terminal deployment, fiscal considerations, emergency services and enforcement.
The publication comes as governments are weighing how to balance innovation, competition and national resilience in satellite communications. D2D and LEO broadband services can extend connectivity to remote regions and support disaster response, but they also raise policy questions around spectrum use, licensing, security, lawful access, consumer safeguards and public safety obligations.
Download the Playbook here.