Telefónica Germany and OQ Technology Trial European D2D Connectivity
Telefónica Germany and OQ Technology have announced plans to test two-way direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity using standard smartphones and Telefónica Deutschland’s licensed spectrum.
The trials will take place in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, a region where expanding terrestrial mobile infrastructure can be challenging due to protected natural areas, forests and lakes. The aim is to demonstrate how satellite connectivity can complement existing mobile networks in locations where building new cell sites is difficult, costly or subject to lengthy approval processes.
The project will use OQ Technology’s low Earth orbit satellites and will support both texting and voice messaging directly to smartphones. Unlike many early D2D demonstrations that rely on dedicated satellite spectrum, the tests will explore the use of Telefónica’s own frequencies, highlighting how satellite systems could eventually operate as a seamless extension of terrestrial mobile networks while remaining under operator control.
The collaboration builds on an existing relationship between the two companies in the IoT sector, where OQ’s satellite network is already being used to support connected devices beyond terrestrial coverage.
Beyond the technology itself, the announcement reflects the growing emphasis on digital sovereignty in Europe’s NTN strategy. Both companies have positioned the initiative as a European-led approach to satellite-to-mobile connectivity, combining a European operator, a European satellite provider and standards-based technologies aligned with ongoing 3GPP NTN development.
Live testing is expected to continue over the coming year as the partners evaluate how satellite and terrestrial networks can work together to extend coverage and improve the resilience of Germany’s digital infrastructure.