Direct-to-device (D2D) services are primarily provided to end-users by Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). That’s because they are a valuable enhancement of terrestrial cellular services, making it logical that almost all D2D satellite operators focus their distribution on these MNOs. However new providers of telecommunications communications services besides MNOs have emerged over the last few years. Based on their high level of service tailoring for specific market segments these providers are increasingly playing a larger role in the global provision of terrestrial cellular services and, as a consequence, represent a growing share of the total global cellular business.

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Enrico Ottolini is co-founder and executive director of Planet Earth Connect. He has more than 25 years of extensive international experience in both the mobile and satellite communications industry. Based on this experience, he guides telecom operators...