Four European carriers consider joint satellite spectrum bid

Deutsche Telekom, Orange, Telefónica and Vodafone signed a letter of intent to consider a joint spectrum bid for satellite services that connect directly to devices, The Verge reports. The initiative would support European competition with Starlink and coverage in underserved areas. The carriers plan to establish ground network infrastructure and coordination and monitoring functions in Europe. They would not invest directly in a satellite constellation; a separate partner would provide it. That satellite partner has yet to be selected.