This statement provides notice that Ofcom has made the Wireless Telegraphy (Direct to Device Satellite Communications) (Exemption) (Amendment) Regulations 2026 (the “Amending Regulations”).
The Amending Regulations amend the Wireless Telegraphy (Direct to Device Satellite Communications) (Exemption) Regulations 2026 (the “D2D Exemption Regulations”), which created a licence exemption for mobile handsets and other SIM-enabled devices connecting to Direct to Device (“D2D”) services that meet the criteria set out in the Regulations.
We have today made the Amending Regulations. The Regulations create a new licence exemption for mobile handsets and other SIM-enabled devices connecting to D2D services provided using specific frequencies in the 900 MHz band1, in the UK. This follows our decision in April 2026 to approve a licence variation to enable VodafoneThree to provide D2D services using its licensed spectrum in 900 MHz.
This decision follows a series of consultations and statements relating to our approach to authorising D2D services. Making the Amending Regulations implements Ofcom policy decisions set out in our December Statement regarding the use of mobile handsets and other SIM enabled devices for D2D services provided by a Mobile Network Operator (MNO) in partnership with a Satellite Operator.
These regulations are intended to come into effect on 10 July 2026.