SUBTEL D2C Satellite Chile: Expansion of Direct-to-Cell Services

On March 25, 2026, the Subsecretaría de Telecomunicaciones (SUBTEL) announced a major step in telecommunications policy with the expansion of Direct-to-Cell (D2C) satellite services across Chile.

This initiative reinforces Chile’s commitment to improving nationwide connectivity and integrating non-terrestrial networks (NTN) into its regulatory framework.

What is SUBTEL D2C Satellite Chile?

The SUBTEL D2C satellite Chile initiative enables standard mobile devices to connect directly to satellites, eliminating the exclusive dependence on terrestrial infrastructure such as cell towers.

Key characteristics include:

• Compatibility with conventional smartphones

• Use of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations

• Hybrid connectivity (terrestrial + satellite integration)

  
  

Key Regulatory and Market Developments

Expansion of Nationwide Coverage

• Focus on underserved and remote regions

• Improved access in rural, mountainous, and maritime areas

  
  

Strengthening Emergency Communications

• Reliable backup connectivity during natural disasters

• Enhanced national resilience infrastructure

  
  

Regulatory Enablement

• Facilitation of satellite spectrum use

• Support for partnerships between mobile operators and satellite providers

  
  

Alignment with Global Trends

• Integration of NTN standards (e.g., 3GPP Release 17+)

• Positioning Chile as a leader in Latin America for satellite-mobile convergence

What This Means for Manufacturers

The SUBTEL D2C satellite Chile expansion introduces new considerations for device manufacturers:

• Integration of NTN-compatible chipsets and antennas

• Support for satellite frequency bands

• Adaptation to hybrid network environments

• Anticipation of updated type approval requirements in Chile

  
  

Early alignment with these requirements will be critical to ensure smooth market entry and avoid certification delays.

Certification Impact Summary

Area	Expected Impact
Type Approval	Likely inclusion of NTN/D2C capabilities
RF Testing	Expansion to satellite frequency validation
Device Requirements	Compatibility with satellite-enabled networks
Regulatory Strategy	Increased need for early compliance planning

Timeline + Required Actions

Timeline

• March 25, 2026 – Official announcement by SUBTEL

• 2026 onward – Implementation phase and operator partnerships

  
  

Required Actions

• Monitor SUBTEL updates for technical and certification requirements

• Evaluate device readiness for D2C/NTN compatibility

• Engage with local regulatory experts

• Plan certification strategies aligned with upcoming regulatory changes

  
  

The SUBTEL D2C satellite Chile initiative reflects a broader transformation in telecommunications: the shift toward ubiquitous, infrastructure-independent connectivity.

For manufacturers and telecom stakeholders, this is a clear signal to prepare for a future where satellite connectivity becomes a standard component of mobile networks.

Early adaptation will be key to maintaining competitiveness and ensuring seamless regulatory compliance.