Ofcom Approves VMO2’s Request to Provide Satellite Connectivity to UK Smartphones

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Ofcom has approved Telefonica UK’s (VMO2) request to vary its licence to allow it to provide satellite connectivity to standard smartphones in the UK.

This is the first licence variation of its kind to be approved by Ofcom. We have also made the final regulations to support the rollout of new services powered by ‘direct to device’ (D2D) technology.

D2D services involve satellites in space beaming down signals to smartphones on earth, enabling people to stay connected in coverage ‘not-spots’ - including in hard-to-reach rural areas and mountainous regions.

Having received and approved the first licence variation request from VMO2 under the new authorisation framework, we have now inserted the frequencies on which the company is allowed to provide D2D services and formally made the regulations that allow existing handsets to use the service.

These regulations are intended to come into effect on 25 February 2026.

ADRCS Collaborates with TARPN on IP400 Project

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The Alberta Digital Radio Communications Society (ADRCS) have announced that it is collaborating with the Terrestrial Amateur Radio Packet Network group (TARPN) to implement an audio band version of its OFDM technology in their Terminal Node Controller (TNC).

“Adding the TNC rounds out the vision of the supernode that we presented at the Zero Retries Digital Conference last September and extends the functionality of the IP400 network to conventional radios on the 2M, 220 and 450 MHz bands, without any modifications”
— Martin Alcock, VE6VH, founder of the IP400 project
“Adding OFDM to our TNC gives us a higher speed mode than previously implemented and practical experience with OFDM”
— Nino Carrillo, KK4HEJ, creator of the TNC
“... in addition it will give us access to proven KISS mode technology that will greatly enhance the utility of our existing nodes in delivering higher data rates for conventional packet radio applications on existing terrestrial networks”
— Martin Alcock, VE6VH, founder of the IP400 project

RSGB Contest Committees Looking for Volunteers

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The RSGB Contest Support Committee, HF Contest Committee and VHF Contest Committee are looking for volunteers who can help organise, support and manage the Society’s contesting activities. While applications from experienced contestants are welcome, the committees would also be pleased to hear from radio amateurs who are new to contesting.

If you are interested in volunteering, please contact RSGB General Manager, Steve Thomas, M1ACB in the first instance, via gm.dept@rsgb.org.uk