BT Group partners with Starlink to expand satellite broadband access in the UK

BT Group and Starlink have entered an agreement to provide high-speed satellite internet to consumers across the UK, particularly targeting regions where conventional broadband infrastructure faces deployment challenges.

The arrangement is intended to extend connectivity options for residential areas where laying fixed-line broadband is unviable due to geographic or economic factors. This adds to BT Group's existing fiber and mobile networks, potentially widening the availability of internet access in rural and remote locations.

Starlink's satellite technology offers download speeds up to 280 Mbps with low latency, designed for relatively quick deployment compared to traditional infrastructure. The combined network service aims to deliver reliable broadband for applications such as streaming, gaming, remote work, and online education.

As part of its broader network strategy, BT Group's Openreach division continues its fiber rollout, having recently reached 20 million premises, with plans to extend coverage to 25 million by the end of 2024 and 30 million by 2030. Starlink's satellite service will serve as a complement to these efforts in areas where fiber deployment faces limitations.

Allison Kirkby, chief executive of BT Group, said, “This landmark agreement with Starlink is a giant leap for rural connectivity – allowing us to get fast and reliable in-home connectivity to our customers in some of the UK’s most rural and isolated areas and to bridge the digital divide better than ever.” Chad Gibbs, vice president of business operations at SpaceX, said, “On behalf of Starlink, we’re excited to team up with BT Group and bring high-speed internet to more people across the UK. Their local presence will help us reach those communities which have historically faced challenges with reliable connectivity. Starlink is committed to its mission to connect the unconnected while maintaining focus on delivering overall quality of service.”

The planned launch of Starlink's satellite broadband for BT and EE customers is expected in the second half of 2026, extending connectivity options in the defined areas. BT Group's prior experience with Satellite Communications (Satcom), including the use of LEO Constellation (Low Earth Orbit) (LEO) satellites in mobile backhaul networks, forms part of its existing technology ecosystem supporting this initiative.