Juniper Research warns direct-to-cell satellite connectivity adoption may underwhelm despite growth projections
By
Dan Robinson
Front-window bakery material. Catches the eye, delivers the goods.
Summary
Juniper Research forecasts that direct-to-cell (D2C) satellite connectivity will grow from 17.4 million monthly active users in 2026 to 133 million by 2031, but warns that real-world adoption will underwhelm expectations. The technology is inherently niche, activating only when terrestrial signals fail, and fails to address poor indoor coverage. Mobile telcos are partnering with satellite operators to extend coverage, but the technology's limitations and likely high costs may keep adoption below industry hype.
Key quotes
· 2 pulledMobile telcos are linking up with satellite operators to extend coverage beyond their cell towers reach, but actual usage of the technology may fall short of industry expectations.
Juniper Research warns real-world adoption will likely disappoint: D2C is inherently niche, kicking in only when terrestrial signal fails, and it does nothing to solve poor indoor coverage
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