LEO satellite regulation has become a pressing concern for the GSMA, which proposed at MWC26 Barcelona that low Earth orbit satellite constellations require fresh regulatory frameworks, particularly for direct-to-device services.
Chief regulatory officer John Giusti said LEO satellite services represent a positive development, enabling direct-to-device connectivity and broadening coverage into areas previously underserved or lacking access entirely. However, he noted the fast pace of development means governments are increasingly considering the need for greater regulatory alignment between satellite and mobile players.
Consumer Protection and Investment at Stake
Giusti said regulatory alignment is necessary to ensure consistent consumer protection and support long-term investment in the sector. He also noted national sovereignty concerns are a factor in the regulatory debate, though the development of LEO direct-to-device services is spurring connectivity improvements for users.
GSMA Position Paper on LEO Satellite Regulation
The GSMA issued a position paper outlining five core regulatory proposals for the telecommunications sector. The paper calls for clear and consistent rules for market entry and equal governance policies for both satellite and mobile players.
Furthermore, the paper proposes aligning national, regional, and international standards. It also recommends fostering exchange between governments, regulators, and the industry, while maintaining a focus on consumer protections for all new services.
Regulatory Gaps in an Emerging Sector
The GSMA argued that many current regulatory frameworks are not sufficient to meet the challenges of emerging business models in the LEO direct-to-device space. The organization stated that action is timely, as the sector remains nascent and existing rules have not kept pace with technological developments.
“Governments are increasingly considering the need for greater regulatory alignment between satellite and mobile players to ensure consistent consumer protection and long-term investment.”
John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer, GSMA
Outlook for Satellite and Mobile Convergence
The GSMA’s position reflects a broader industry push to bring satellite connectivity under the same regulatory umbrella as terrestrial mobile networks. As LEO constellations from multiple operators expand globally, the pressure on regulators to act is expected to grow. The organization did not specify a timeline for when governments should adopt the proposed framework.
The call for regulation comes as mobile device manufacturers increasingly integrate direct-to-device satellite capabilities into consumer hardware, further blurring the line between traditional mobile and satellite services.