Orange Launches First European Direct-to-Device Satellite SMS Service
At Orange’s OpenTech event in Paris the company has unveiled “Message Satellite”, becoming the first operator in Europe to offer Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite messaging. The service enables Orange customers in mainland France to send and receive SMS, and share their geolocation, via satellite when mobile or Wi-Fi coverage is unavailable.
Launched in partnership with Skylo, the service works on standard smartphones and requires no additional hardware. It will initially be available exclusively on the Google Pixel 9 and 10, with broader device support planned. Coverage includes France and 36 countries across Europe, North America, South America, and Asia-Pacific.
“Message Satellite” will be available to consumers from 11 December 2025, extending to enterprise users in 2026. After a free six-month trial, the service will cost €5/month.
By integrating D2D satellite links into its core network, Orange will add a new layer of resilience and reach to its connectivity portfoliotargeting outdoor users, travellers, emergency services, and teams operating in remote or disrupted areas.