MEO is today announcing a historic milestone by becoming the first national operator in Portugal to successfully test sending text and making voice calls using innovative Satellite Direct-to-Device (D2D) technology. This technology allows direct connectivity between mobile devices via satellites, a solution that can guarantee coverage in remote or hard-to-reach areas. This step puts MEO at the forefront of technological innovations, consolidating its leadership in the telecommunications sector and in the development of advanced solutions for global connectivity.
The tests were carried out in partnership with Lynk Global, in a remote area of São Miguel Island, in the Azores. Using the frequencies used in MEO's mobile network, the devices connected directly to Lynk's satellites, successfully demonstrating the ability to make voice calls and send text, using the standard cell phones available on the market.
This demonstration proved that D2D technology can act as an essential complement to mobile networks, ensuring connectivity even in crisis scenarios or natural disasters that compromise terrestrial infrastructure.
"MEO is proud to be the first national operator in Portugal to invest in this technology as part of our strategy to continue exploring new frontiers in the field of connectivity," says José Pedro Nascimento, MEO's Chief Technology Officer. "Our commitment to innovation in the space sector is opening up new possibilities to guarantee quality coverage in areas where terrestrial mobile networks do not reach. This step not only puts us at the forefront of global connectivity, but also positions Portugal as a reference point in the use of satellites to improve communication and access to information around the world."
Daniel Dooley, Lynk's Chief Commercial Officer, added: "The success of this trial with MEO proves that our patented technology works anywhere in the world, even on remote islands and sea areas 1,000 miles off the coast of mainland Europe. As one of the leading global D2D providers, we look forward to continuing to work with MEO to improve connectivity and expand coverage for all their customers."
MEO reinforces its commitment to resilience and service excellence by expanding its presence in the space ecosystem and satellite communications. This advance consolidates its position as a pioneering telecommunications operator, not only in digital transformation, but also in innovation in the space sector. The Alfouvar Satellite Center plays a key role in this strategy, in line with MEO's vision of projecting Portugal onto the global map of digital infrastructure and connectivity.