Direct-to-Device Satellite Connections Surge Amid Market Growth

• •D2D satellite connections grew by 24.5% globally from July 2025 to March 2026.
• •The US accounts for 45.9% of all global D2D connections, primarily driven by Starlink.
• •Only 0.46% of US mobile users connected to D2D satellites in March 2026.

The direct-to-device (D2D) satellite market has seen a significant increase, with connections rising approximately 24.5% globally between July 2025 and March 2026, according to Ookla. The US leads this market, accounting for 45.9% of all D2D connections, driven primarily by Starlink's services. Other notable countries include Australia (18.1%), Chile (10%), and Canada (9.8%). Despite this growth, only a small fraction of mobile users are utilizing D2D services, with just 0.46% of US users connecting to satellites in March 2026. The technology allows smartphones to link directly to satellites, providing coverage in areas with limited cellular service. T-Mobile and Virgin Media O2 have launched D2D services using Starlink, while other operators like AST SpaceMobile are also entering the market. The services currently offer limited functionalities, primarily text messaging and low-data services, with expectations for future upgrades to enable voice calls and higher data rates.