A new report from GSMA Intelligence has found that nearly half of mobile phone users would consider switching their telecommunications provider if satellite-enabled services were included in their subscription. The study, titled “The Great Connectivity Convergence: NTN in Consumer Mobile,” surveyed over 12,000 consumers across 12 countries.
The report highlights ongoing issues with network coverage, as more than a third of respondents said they lose access to basic mobile cellular services at least twice per month. Satellite services are seen as a way to complement existing terrestrial networks and extend reliable connectivity to remote areas.
Globally, more than 60% of consumers indicated they are willing to pay extra for satellite-enabled features on their smartphones. Willingness varies by region, with higher rates reported in India (89%) and Indonesia (82%), compared to the United States (56%) and France (48%).
Despite India’s lower average revenue per user (ARPU) of $2.35—much less than the U.S.’s $45.57—the report notes that large populations and high willingness to pay could make these markets attractive for mobile network operators if strategies are adapted accordingly.
Interest in satellite services also differs by market maturity. In less economically developed regions, there is greater enthusiasm for high-data-rate applications such as web browsing and video calls via satellite. In contrast, consumers in developed economies show more interest in messaging and emergency SOS services.
This divergence presents a challenge for operators seeking to balance consumer expectations with current technological capabilities, particularly in emerging markets where data-rich satellite offerings may not yet be available.
Tim Hatt, Head of Research & Consulting at GSMA Intelligence, commented: “Six in ten say they’re willing to pay extra for D2D services, and nearly half would switch provider to get them, a decisive signal of demand and a clear revenue runway for operators. With satellite services aligned to 3GPP standards and moving from trials to commercial reality, the race is on to deliver D2D at scale, first messaging and voice, then data – so operators can differentiate on reach, resilience and customer trust.”
For further information or investor inquiries regarding this topic, Lisa Curran or Peter Lopez can be contacted at +1 (760) 476-2633 or IR@viasat.com.
