Viasat Says 50% of Mobile Customers Would Switch Providers for Satellite Service
A new global study from Viasat and GSMA Intelligence suggests the satellite-to-smartphone era is approaching a major inflection point, and that mobile operators who hesitate may lose customers.
The report, “The Great Connectivity Convergence: NTN in Consumer Mobile,” surveyed more than 12,000 smartphone users across 12 countries, with findings showing a rapidly growing appetite for direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity, especially in markets where terrestrial coverage remains inconsistent.
The headline numbers:
60% of consumers worldwide would pay extra for satellite-enabled services.
47% say they would switch operators to get satellite coverage in areas where mobile networks fail.
The report shows that despite the rollout of 4G and 5G, over one-third of global users still lose basic mobile signal multiple times per month, with frustration translating directly into demand for satellites that can fill coverage gaps.
The report highlights a challenge for operators: consumer awareness varies dramatically.
India: 74% of users know about satellite-to-phone features
Japan: ~25%
Mature markets generally show interest in messaging and SOS, while emerging markets are already excited about web browsing and video calls via satellite, capabilities that aren’t yet widely available.
The authors warn of a potential “marketing gap”: the need to cultivate excitement without over-promising on data-rich services that will roll out more gradually.
With satellite connectivity moving quickly from trials to commercial deployment, and becoming aligned with 3GPP standards, the report signals a clear opportunity for MNOs. Offering satellite coverage is no longer just an innovation story; it’s becoming a competitive necessity.