London-based biomaterials company Modern Synthesis has unveiled a new class of nonwoven materials derived from ‘bacterial nanocellulose’.

Sustainable Alternative To Other Materials

These innovative textiles can be made to replace everything from plastic films to leathers, thereby offering a sustainable alternative to some of the fashion and automotive industries’ most environmentally damaging materials.

Who Is Modern Synthesis?

Founded by former Adidas designer Jen Keane and biomaterials specialist Ben Reeve, Modern Synthesis is an emerging leader in the development of next-generation textiles that move beyond petrochemical and animal-derived materials. The company, headquartered in London, is focused on harnessing bacterial nanocellulose to create a versatile range of fabrics that are not only high-performance but also fully biodegradable.

Keane, now CEO, came into the spotlight in 2018 when she successfully ‘grew’ a shoe using bacteria, demonstrating the potential of biofabrication. However, she believes the true potential lies not in shaping materials as they grow, but in using bacterial cellulose as a foundational fibre that can be manipulated and scaled like traditional textiles.

What is this New Material and Why is it Significant?

Modern Synthesis’ material is primarily made from bacterial nanocellulose, i.e. a natural fibre that is eight times stronger than steel when produced at the nanoscale (materials measured in nanometres, typically less than 100 nm). Unlike plant-based cellulose (which requires intensive farming, land, and water), bacterial nanocellulose is cultivated through fermentation. This makes it a highly efficient and sustainable alternative.

What sets Modern Synthesis apart is its proprietary process, which integrates bacterial nanocellulose with a woven or knitted textile scaffold. This method allows the final material to be fine-tuned for different textures and mechanical properties, making it possible to replace synthetic leathers, coated fabrics, and even high-performance technical textiles.

Unlike most bio-based leather alternatives (which often rely on synthetic binders to achieve durability), Modern Synthesis’ process is entirely free from petrochemicals. The result is a fully biodegradable material that behaves much like conventional textiles but with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

How is the Material Made?

The production process is an advanced form of microbial fermentation. The company uses a strain of bacteria known as Komagataeibacter rhaeticus, which naturally produces nanocellulose when fed with agricultural sugars. As the bacteria grow, they deposit nanocellulose fibres around a specially designed yarn scaffold, resulting in a unique, nonwoven textile structure.

This controlled approach allows for the fine-tuning of material properties, such as flexibility, strength, and texture, by adjusting the bacterial growth conditions and the composition of the scaffold. Unlike synthetic textiles that require chemical treatments to achieve similar properties, Modern Synthesis’ materials develop these characteristics organically.

Environmental and Industry Implications

The implications for both the fashion industry and the wider materials market could be vast. For example, leather and synthetic textiles, such as polyurethane-based vegan leathers, are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, plastic pollution, and deforestation. The carbon footprint of Modern Synthesis’ bacterial nanocellulose-based textiles is expected to be significantly lower than that of both traditional leather and synthetic alternatives.

Water usage is another key area of impact. Traditional leather production requires thousands of litres of water per square metre, whereas bacterial nanocellulose fermentation uses a fraction of that amount. Also, Modern Synthesis’ material does not involve toxic tanning chemicals, further reducing its environmental impact.

For businesses, this innovation could offer a way to meet growing consumer demand for sustainability without sacrificing quality or performance. Luxury brands and sportswear companies have already shown interest, with Danish fashion house Ganni collaborating with Modern Synthesis in 2023 to create a handbag made entirely without petrochemicals.

Potential Applications

Beyond fashion, Modern Synthesis’ materials have potential applications in:

– Footwear. As a lightweight, durable replacement for leather and synthetic uppers.

– Automotive interiors. The material’s high-temperature resistance and durability make it an attractive option for dashboards and upholstery.

– Smart textiles. The company is exploring how nanocellulose can be integrated with electronics for wearable technology.

Keane has highlighted the versatility of the material, stating, “Cellulosic materials don’t melt like synthetics do. If you think about car dashboards, how they start to warp when left in the sun too long—our materials won’t do that.”

Challenges and Limitations

While Modern Synthesis’ technology seems promising, there are still many hurdles to overcome before widespread adoption. For example, the company recognises that scaling production to meet industrial demand remains a major challenge. With this in mind, the company is currently working to increase production at its pilot facility fivefold, but larger-scale manufacturing will require further investment and infrastructure.

Another challenge is recyclability. While the material is biodegradable, ensuring it is also recyclable without compromising its durability remains a key focus. Many bio-based materials require additional treatments that can hinder their ability to be repurposed at the end of their life cycle. Modern Synthesis is understood to be actively working with “green chemistries” to develop formulations that balance performance with circularity.

Who Else is Developing Similar Materials?

Modern Synthesis is actually part of a growing movement towards microbial-based textiles. Other players exploring bacterial nanocellulose include:

– MycoWorks, which specialises in mushroom-derived mycelium leather.

– Bolt Threads. Developed Mylo, another mycelium-based leather alternative.

– Ananas Anam, the creators of Piñatex, a plant-based leather alternative derived from pineapple leaves.

However, most of these alternatives still require synthetic binders, whereas Modern Synthesis’ approach stands out for being entirely bio-based and customisable at the nanoscale.

What Does This Mean For Your Organisation?

Modern Synthesis’ bacterial nanocellulose-based textiles could be an important advancement in the quest for sustainable materials. By leveraging microbial fermentation to create high-performance, biodegradable fabrics, the company is offering an alternative that challenges both traditional leather and synthetic textiles on environmental grounds. Unlike many bio-based alternatives that still rely on petrochemical additives, this new class of material is not only renewable but also fully biodegradable, making it a compelling solution for industries seeking to reduce their ecological footprint.

However, while the potential is undeniable, challenges remain. Scaling up production to meet commercial demand is a critical hurdle, as is ensuring the material can be seamlessly integrated into existing supply chains. Also, achieving true circularity (i.e. where the material is not just biodegradable but also efficiently recyclable) will be essential in determining its long-term impact. Modern Synthesis appears to be actively addressing these concerns, but success will likely depend on continued innovation and investment.

What appears to set Modern Synthesis apart is not just its scientific approach but its vision for redefining how materials are made. By collaborating with major fashion brands and exploring applications beyond apparel, the company is positioning its technology as a viable replacement for some of the most environmentally damaging materials in use today. If production challenges can be overcome, bacterial nanocellulose textiles could play a key role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, lowering carbon emissions, and transforming industries that have long been dependent on resource-intensive materials.

This innovation could, therefore, offer a promising glimpse into the future of sustainable manufacturing. While it may take time to achieve widespread adoption, the foundations are being laid for a possible material revolution and one that moves beyond extraction and towards biofabrication. If Modern Synthesis and others in the field can bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and large-scale industry use, bacterial nanocellulose textiles could become a defining material of the sustainable era.

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Following the surprise introduction of Chinese AI chatbot DeepSeek, here we look at what makes it different, and why concerns are growing over its safety and privacy implications.

What is DeepSeek?

DeepSeek is a Chinese-developed AI chatbot that functions much like OpenAI’s ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini. The app exploded in popularity following its release in January 2025. It has reportedly already surpassed three million downloads, becoming the most-downloaded free app on Apple’s App Store in the US. Compared to competitors such as Perplexity, it has been downloaded at three times the rate.

Like ChatGPT, DeepSeek provides AI-generated responses to user queries but has been praised for its ability to perform complex reasoning tasks at a fraction of the cost of rival models. DeepSeek’s developers claim it was built with significantly fewer resources than models like GPT-4, making it an attractive and cost-effective alternative.

One of DeepSeek’s standout claims is its low development cost. While OpenAI’s GPT-4 reportedly cost over $100 million to train, DeepSeek’s AI model was (purportedly), built for just $6 million, i.e. a fraction of the budget! This efficiency has raised eyebrows in Silicon Valley and cast doubt on the assumption that only the most advanced AI chips can power state-of-the-art models. These relatively low development cost have raised doubts (as to their authenticity), as well as concerns for US companies.

Big Losses For Nvidia

DeepSeek’s rapid rise has sent shockwaves through the tech sector. For example, US chip giant Nvidia suffered a staggering $600bn (£482bn) loss in market value after investors questioned the future profitability of high-end AI chips. The shockwave spread to other major players, with Microsoft and Alphabet (Google’s parent company) also seeing significant stock downturns.

The shock of DeepSeek’s introduction and effect on the markets caused US President Donald Trump to call DeepSeek a “wake-up call” for American tech firms, stressing that they must compete harder. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman admitted DeepSeek was “impressive” but insisted OpenAI would continue to build superior models.

However, while DeepSeek’s capabilities have impressed many, its arrival has also triggered serious privacy and security concerns.

What Are the Privacy Concerns?

One of the biggest red flags surrounding DeepSeek is its data privacy policy. Unlike many Western AI platforms, which have moved to storing user data in local data centres, DeepSeek openly states that all user data is stored on servers in China. This includes:

– Personal information such as email addresses, phone numbers, and dates of birth.

– Chat histories, including all questions and responses.

– Technical data such as IP addresses, device information, and even keystroke patterns.

DeepSeek claims this data collection helps improve its services, but critics warn that it also grants the Chinese government (i.e. the Chinese Communist Party) potential access to vast amounts of sensitive user information. Under China’s cybersecurity laws, companies are required to cooperate with state intelligence efforts, meaning that the government could theoretically demand access to DeepSeek’s data at any time.

Warnings From Australia And The UK

Australia’s science minister, Ed Husic, has already warned users to be “very careful” when using the app, highlighting unanswered questions about data privacy. Also, the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office has reminded users of their rights regarding data protection, urging AI developers to ensure transparency in how personal data is used.

US Navy Personnel Banned From Using It

Meanwhile, the US Navy has taken the drastic step of banning its personnel from using DeepSeek entirely, citing security concerns. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that US officials are actively investigating the national security implications of the app.

Security Breaches and Leaks

Privacy concerns escalated further when cybersecurity researchers at Wiz reported discovering that DeepSeek had an unprotected internal database leaking user chat histories, API keys, and other sensitive data to the open internet. More than a million unencrypted logs were exposed due to what appeared to be a simple misconfiguration. While DeepSeek moved quickly to secure the database, it remains unclear whether any unauthorised parties accessed the data before the breach was fixed.

Experts warn that this kind of security lapse suggests a worrying lack of basic cybersecurity hygiene. A spokesperson for Wiz has been reported as saying: “Misconfigured databases are often due to human error rather than malicious intent,” and “When dealing with user data at this scale, mistakes like this are simply unacceptable.”

Censorship and Propaganda Concerns

Another major issue with DeepSeek appears to be its approach to content moderation. For example, users have reported that the chatbot censors politically sensitive topics, particularly those related to the Chinese government. One widely reported example is that when asked about the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre, DeepSeek simply refused to provide an answer, stating: “I am sorry, I cannot answer that question.”

Some critics have also argued that this suggests DeepSeek is designed not just as a neutral AI assistant but as a tool that aligns with Chinese government policies. For example, John Scott-Railton, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto’s Citizen Lab, has warned that AI models like DeepSeek could be used to subtly influence public opinion, saying: “When you interact with an AI like this, you’re not just getting neutral information—you’re getting content that is shaped by the policies and priorities of the company behind it.”

How Does It Really Compare to Other AI Models?

DeepSeek’s privacy policy is not entirely unique, i.e. many AI platforms collect extensive user data. ChatGPT, for example, retains user inputs to improve its models, and Google’s Gemini collects detailed device and usage data.

However, the key difference lies in where the data is stored and who has access to it. Unlike DeepSeek, OpenAI and Google operate under strict US and EU regulations that limit how personal data can be shared or used. DeepSeek’s data policies, on the other hand, appear to leave the door open for potential state surveillance.

For users, this means that while DeepSeek may offer an innovative and cost-effective AI experience, it may also come with significant risks that are hard to overlook.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

The rise of DeepSeek showed (much to the shock of the US) that powerful models are no longer exclusive to Silicon Valley’s tech giants. However, while its impressive capabilities and cost efficiency make it an attractive option, concerns surrounding its privacy policies, security vulnerabilities, and potential government oversight have raised some serious questions for businesses considering its adoption.

For companies looking to integrate AI into their operations, DeepSeek’s ability to perform complex reasoning tasks at a fraction of the cost of rival models may seem like a compelling advantage. However, its data storage practices appear to stand in stark contrast to those of Western AI providers. Unlike ChatGPT or Google’s Gemini, which operate under strict US and EU data protection regulations, DeepSeek openly stores user data on servers in China. Given China’s cybersecurity laws, which require companies to cooperate with state intelligence efforts, businesses using DeepSeek should acknowledge the very real possibility that sensitive information could be accessed or monitored by the Chinese government.

This, of course, raises critical concerns for organisations handling confidential or highly regulated information. For example, companies operating in finance, healthcare, legal services, and government sectors may want to be particularly cautious, as the use of DeepSeek could lead to unintended breaches of data protection laws such as the UK’s Data Protection Act or the EU’s GDPR. The potential for regulatory scrutiny, legal repercussions, or even outright bans on the software in certain jurisdictions can’t be ignored. The fact that the US Navy has already prohibited its personnel from using DeepSeek, citing national security risks, suggests that further restrictions may follow, particularly in industries dealing with sensitive data or intellectual property.

Beyond privacy and compliance issues, the recent security breach that left user chat histories and API keys exposed raises further doubts about the reliability of DeepSeek’s cybersecurity practices. While the developers moved quickly to secure the database, the fact that such an oversight occurred at all suggests a worrying lack of basic security protocols. For businesses, this highlights the potential risk of data leaks, unauthorised access, and cyber espionage, i.e. concerns that no organisation can afford to take lightly.

Another challenge lies in DeepSeek’s approach to content moderation and information control. Reports of the chatbot refusing to answer politically sensitive questions, particularly those related to the Chinese government, indicate that it is not merely a neutral AI assistant but one that aligns with the policies of the state that developed it. This raises important questions about bias, censorship, and the reliability of information provided by the platform. Businesses relying on AI for research, market analysis, or customer engagement must be aware that the responses they receive may not always be objective or complete.

Given these concerns, organisations considering the use of DeepSeek should carefully evaluate whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks.

While the app’s cost efficiency and performance may seem appealing, any business dealing with sensitive data, regulatory requirements, or intellectual property should approach it with extreme caution. Those who do choose to explore its capabilities should ensure that no confidential or personally identifiable information is entered into the system and should implement strict internal controls to mitigate the risk of exposure.

Ultimately, DeepSeek represents both the promise and the peril of modern AI. Its rapid ascent proves that cutting-edge technology can emerge from beyond the traditional powerhouses of the tech industry, but its controversial data policies and security concerns serve as a stark reminder that not all AI models are created equal.

Workplace surveillance is becoming an inescapable reality for employees across the UK, with new research showing that 85 per cent of employers now monitor their staff’s online activity.

What’s Going On?

While businesses argue that these measures are essential for productivity and security, research indicates that employees are increasingly feeling the strain, leading to stress, distrust, and even resignations. So, just how widespread is workplace surveillance, what methods are being used, and what does it mean for the future of work?

The Scale of Workplace Surveillance

Workplace surveillance refers to the various ways employers track, record, and analyse their employees’ activities during work hours. While some monitoring practices, such as logging clock-in times, have been around for decades (going as far back as the nineteenth century), the digital era has significantly expanded what’s possible. Employers are now using sophisticated tools to track emails, internet usage, keystrokes, and even employees’ locations. In some cases, surveillance goes even further, with real-time screen monitoring and video surveillance becoming increasingly common.

The latest findings from an ExpressVPN survey have highlighted just how pervasive this practice has become. Their research shows that 85 per cent of UK employers admit to monitoring their staff in some way, with 54 per cent tracking active work hours, 36 per cent keeping an eye on website visits, and 27 per cent using software to observe employees’ screens in real-time. More intrusive measures, such as keystroke logging and location tracking, are also on the rise.

Employers Prefer In-Office Work

It appears that this shift has been accelerated by remote and hybrid work models which, since the pandemic years, have left many employers feeling out of control. The ExpressVPN study found that 72 per cent of employers prefer in-office work because it reduces the need for surveillance, while 51 per cent openly admit that they do not trust employees to work unsupervised.

Who’s Watching – Large Corporations or Small Businesses?

It seems that workplace surveillance isn’t just confined to large corporations and both small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are known to be engaging in these practices. However, larger firms tend to have more sophisticated monitoring tools and policies in place.

For example, tech giants such as Amazon have long been criticised for using surveillance technology to track warehouse workers and delivery drivers. Employees have reported feeling intense pressure due to constant monitoring, with some even being penalised for taking bathroom breaks. Similarly, financial institutions such as Barclays and PwC have been reported to track employees’ computer activity, logging how long they are active on their devices.

Also, companies like Microsoft have faced backlash over their “Productivity Score” tool, which was criticised for allowing managers to monitor individual workers’ performance at an almost microscopic level. In response to concerns about privacy, Microsoft eventually scaled back the tool’s capabilities, but the fact remains that workplace surveillance is no longer just about keeping track of attendance but is more about watching employees’ every digital move.

Why is Workplace Surveillance Increasing?

The rise of workplace surveillance is closely tied to the growing number of employees working remotely or in hybrid arrangements. Many businesses feel that without physical oversight, they cannot ensure that staff are working productively.

Employers also cite security concerns as a major reason for surveillance. With more employees accessing company data from home, businesses worry about sensitive information being leaked, stolen, or misused. Surveillance is seen as a way to safeguard against these risks, ensuring that employees are not engaging in unauthorised activities.

However, there is also a less talked-about reason behind the rise in monitoring, i.e. control. Many businesses simply feel uneasy about not being able to see what their staff are doing at all times. This has led to an increasing reliance on tracking tools to maintain a sense of authority, even when employees are working from home.

The Most Common Forms of Workplace Surveillance

Workplace monitoring can take many forms, ranging from relatively standard practices to highly invasive measures. The main forms highlighted by the ExpressVPN research include:

– Email and Chat Monitoring – 36 per cent of companies track employees’ emails, while 28 per cent monitor internal chat logs. This means that even private conversations between colleagues on work devices may not be as private as employees think.

– Keystroke Logging – 15 per cent of businesses record keystrokes, capturing exactly what employees type, including passwords and personal messages.

– Real-Time Screen Monitoring – More than a quarter (27 per cent) of employers actively view employees’ screens, allowing them to see what is being worked on in real time.

– Location Tracking – 21 per cent of businesses use GPS to monitor where employees are working from, raising concerns about whether staff members are being tracked outside of work hours.

The Ethical and Legal Debate

Workplace surveillance is actually a bit of a legal grey area in the UK. For example, although employers are permitted to monitor employees, there are rules about how they must go about it. The Data Protection Act 2018 and the European Convention on Human Rights provide some safeguards, stating that surveillance must be proportionate, transparent, and conducted for a legitimate business purpose.

However, many employees remain unaware of their rights. For example, ExpressVPN’s research found that 38 per cent of UK workers did not realise their employers were legally allowed to monitor their digital activity. Also, 79 per cent of Brits believe that workplace surveillance needs stricter government regulation to protect employee privacy.

The ethical concerns are even more pressing. Many employees feel that excessive monitoring creates a culture of distrust, reducing morale and increasing stress. If workers constantly feel watched, they are less likely to feel comfortable in their roles, which can lead to lower productivity and higher staff turnover.

How Workplace Surveillance Affects Employees

The impact of surveillance on employees is profound. Nearly half (46 per cent) of UK workers report feeling increased stress due to monitoring, with many saying they are constantly worried about how their actions might be perceived.

ExpressVPN’s research revealed that some employees have even altered their behaviour in response to surveillance. For example, 27 per cent say they take fewer breaks to avoid appearing unproductive.

It seems that workplace surveillance can also take its toll on employees mentally and emotionally. For example, according to the research:

– 23 per cent feel pressured to work longer hours.

– 32 per cent constantly wonder whether they are being watched.

– 14 per cent report feeling dehumanised by the extent of monitoring.

Young Employees Affected The Most

Young employees are particularly affected, with workers aged 18-24 feeling the highest levels of stress over being monitored.

Employees’ Reactions

As revealed by the survey, in response to surveillance, some employees have begun using creative, if questionable, tactics to avoid being flagged for inactivity. For example:

– 18 per cent admit to keeping unnecessary applications open to appear busy.

– 15 per cent schedule emails to send at certain times to give the impression of constant engagement.

– 11 per cent use ‘mouse jigglers’ or keyboard simulation software to avoid being marked as inactive.

These workarounds suggest that rather than boosting productivity, excessive surveillance may actually be encouraging employees to focus more on appearing busy rather than doing meaningful work.

It should be noted that employers are increasingly deploying advanced monitoring tools capable of detecting deceptive behaviours used by employees to get around surveillance. For example, companies like Wells Fargo have identified (and dismissed) employees for simulating keyboard activity to appear productive.

Is Workplace Surveillance Actually Effective?

Employers argue that monitoring increases productivity, but much of the evidence seems to suggest otherwise. While some studies indicate that limited monitoring can help prevent misconduct, excessive surveillance tends to have the opposite effect. Employees who feel watched are more likely to experience burnout, decreased engagement, and ultimately lower performance.

For example, a study by the Austrian research group Cracked Labs found that overly aggressive surveillance can lead to a toxic work environment, where employees feel like they are constantly being scrutinised. This, in turn, leads to lower morale and higher staff turnover, which can cost businesses more in the long run.

The Future of Workplace Surveillance

With AI and advanced analytics becoming more sophisticated, workplace monitoring is only set to expand. Some companies are already using AI-powered surveillance to track everything from facial expressions during video calls to time spent away from a keyboard.

However, the backlash is growing. Employees are increasingly demanding transparency and greater legal protection. If businesses fail to strike a balance between oversight and trust, they risk creating a workforce that feels resentful, stressed, and ultimately disengaged.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

While workplace surveillance is often justified by employers as a necessary tool for maintaining productivity and security, the reality may be more complex. The evidence suggests that while some level of monitoring may help prevent misconduct, excessive surveillance can backfire, leading to stress, disengagement, and resentment among employees. Instead of fostering a culture of productivity, it can create an environment of fear and mistrust, where workers are more focused on appearing active rather than doing meaningful work.

The increasing reliance on monitoring technology, particularly in remote and hybrid work settings, appears to reveal a fundamental lack of trust between employers and employees. This lack of trust, rather than improving performance, is more likely to damage morale and increase staff turnover. The findings from ExpressVPN’s research make it clear that many employees feel dehumanised and pressured under constant scrutiny, with younger workers being the most affected. When employees feel like they are being watched at every moment, the psychological toll can be significant, affecting their well-being and ultimately their performance.

While UK law does allow workplace monitoring for legitimate business purposes, the rules surrounding transparency and proportionality are not always strictly enforced. The fact that nearly four in ten employees are unaware of their rights in this regard suggests a concerning lack of clarity and communication. This is why there is growing demand for stronger regulations to ensure that workplace surveillance is conducted fairly and with clear boundaries.

For businesses, the challenge lies in striking the right balance. Employers should really weigh the benefits of monitoring against the potential negative consequences. Surveillance should ideally be used as a tool to support productivity, not as a mechanism of control that erodes trust and morale. Transparency is key. When employees understand why monitoring is in place, how data is being used, and what safeguards exist, they are more likely to accept it as a legitimate part of their working environment rather than as an invasive overreach.

The future of workplace surveillance is likely to be shaped by advancements in AI and monitoring technology, but also by the growing pushback from employees and privacy advocates. If businesses fail to recognise the risks of excessive surveillance, they may find themselves facing higher attrition rates, lower engagement, and potential legal challenges. The key takeaway from all of this is really that trust and productivity go hand in hand. If employers truly want a motivated and efficient workforce, they may wish to focus less on surveillance and more on creating a workplace culture built on transparency, fairness, and mutual respect.

Vodafone has successfully conducted the world’s first satellite-enabled video call using a standard 4G/5G smartphone from a location devoid of terrestrial mobile coverage.

The Call

Vodafone has reported that recently (the exact date has not been specified), an engineer from the company, Rowan Chesmer, initiated a video call from a remote mountainous area in mid-Wales, which is a region historically lacking mobile broadband access, i.e. it has ‘not spots’. Using a standard Android smartphone, Chesmer connected directly to a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operated by AST SpaceMobile, a partner of Vodafone. The call was received by Vodafone Group Chief Executive Margherita Della Valle at the company’s UK headquarters in Newbury, Berkshire. This event was further distinguished by the presence of British astronaut Tim Peake, who joined Della Valle to commemorate the achievement.

Vodafone is keen to highlight the call as being a milestone that could signify a significant leap towards universal connectivity, potentially bridging the digital divide in remote and underserved regions.

The Mechanism

The success of this endeavour hinges on the integration of standard smartphones with LEO satellites. Unlike traditional satellite phones, which are often bulky and require specialised equipment, Vodafone’s approach allows regular smartphones to connect directly to satellites without the need for additional hardware. The process involves the smartphone communicating with the satellite, which then transmits data to and from a ground-based relay station. This relay station is connected to Vodafone’s terrestrial network, facilitating seamless communication between the satellite and ground infrastructure.

Implications for Vodafone Users

This technological advancement promises to eliminate mobile coverage ‘not-spots’, i.e. the areas where traditional mobile signals are unavailable. For Vodafone users, this means the potential for uninterrupted connectivity, even in the most remote locations. The service aims to mirror the experience of existing 4G and 5G networks, enabling users to make video calls, access the internet, and use online messaging services without any noticeable difference. Importantly, users will not need to invest in specialised devices (their existing smartphones will suffice).

The Projected Rollout Timeline

While the initial test was successful, Vodafone says it plans to conduct further evaluations throughout the spring. The company says it’s aiming to progressively introduce the direct-to-smartphone broadband satellite service commercially in markets across Europe later this year and during 2026. It hopes that this phased rollout approach will ensure the technology is robust and reliable before widespread deployment.

The Broader Impact on the Telecommunications Industry

Vodafone’s achievement sets a new benchmark in the telecommunications sector, highlighting the feasibility of integrating satellite connectivity with standard mobile devices. This development is likely to prompt other mobile operators to explore similar technologies to enhance their coverage and service offerings. Notably, companies such as AT&T and Verizon have also partnered with AST SpaceMobile to develop satellite-based mobile broadband services, indicating a broader industry trend towards leveraging satellite technology for comprehensive coverage.

What’s Been Said About It?

All the key players at Vodafone and its partners have been keen to highlight the significance of this milestone and what it could mean. For example, Margherita Della Valle, Vodafone Group Chief Executive, said: “Vodafone’s job is to get everyone connected, no matter where they are” and that “This will help to close the digital divide, supporting people from all corners of Europe to keep in touch with family and friends, or work, as well as ensuring reliable rural connectivity in an emergency”.

UK Astronaut Tim Peake has also reflected on Vodafone’s achievement, saying: “Having spent six months on the International Space Station, I can fully appreciate the value in being able to communicate with family and friends from remote and isolated locations. I am delighted to join Vodafone and AST SpaceMobile in this significant breakthrough.”

Abel Avellan, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of AST SpaceMobile, highlighted the collaborative effort involved, saying: “This historic milestone marks another significant step forward in our partnership with Vodafone, a long-time investor in AST SpaceMobile and a key technology partner. Together, we have achieved several world firsts in space-based broadband connectivity.”

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

The satellite system employed in the test used AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites, which operate in Low Earth Orbit at approximately 500 km above the Earth’s surface. This proximity allows for lower latency and faster data transmission compared to traditional geostationary satellites. The system is designed to provide peak data transmission speeds of up to 120 Mbps, supporting a full mobile broadband experience. Also, the technology employs beamforming techniques to direct radio signals precisely, enhancing speed and minimising interference.

Why Is Direct-To-Phone Satellite Different?

While some smartphones, such as recent iPhone models, offer emergency SOS features via satellite, these services are limited to text messaging and require clear line-of-sight to the sky. In contrast, Vodafone’s direct-to-phone satellite service aims to provide a comprehensive mobile broadband experience, including video calls and internet access, without the need for specialised equipment or ideal environmental conditions.

Drawbacks

While Vodafone’s satellite-enabled smartphone video call marks a major breakthrough, several challenges remain. Early tests revealed issues with connection quality, including choppy video and noticeable lag due to higher latency and lower bandwidth than traditional networks. Regulatory hurdles could also slow progress, as securing spectrum approvals and navigating complex legal frameworks take time. Also, some critics argue that eliminating mobile ‘not-spots’ may reduce opportunities for solitude and digital disconnection. Astronomers have raised concerns about the increasing number of satellites interfering with space observations and asteroid detection. Lastly, Vodafone has yet to disclose pricing details, raising questions about affordability, as satellite communication has historically been costly. Addressing these issues will be key to ensuring a smooth and responsible rollout of the technology.

Looking Ahead

The successful demonstration of satellite-enabled video calls using standard smartphones could open new avenues for global connectivity. As Vodafone and its partners continue to refine this technology, it holds the promise of connecting underserved and remote regions, thereby enhancing emergency response capabilities and ensuring that users remain connected regardless of their location. However, the widespread adoption of this technology will require substantial investment in satellite infrastructure and careful coordination with existing terrestrial networks to ensure seamless service delivery.

What Does This Mean For Your Business?

Vodafone’s successful satellite-enabled video call marks a significant step towards a future where mobile connectivity is no longer restricted by geography. By demonstrating that a standard smartphone can make a video call via satellite without additional hardware, Vodafone has shown the potential to bridge the long-standing gaps in mobile coverage. For those living in or travelling through remote areas, this could mean reliable access to communication services where traditional networks have struggled to reach. In emergency situations, where connectivity can be a matter of life and death, the ability to make calls and access the internet via satellite could prove invaluable.

However, while the achievement is impressive, there are still challenges to overcome before this technology becomes widely available. Issues with connection quality, including latency and bandwidth limitations, need to be addressed to ensure a seamless user experience. Regulatory approvals and the logistical task of deploying enough satellites to provide consistent coverage remain significant hurdles. Vodafone’s timeline for a full commercial rollout, set for later in 2025 and 2026, suggests that further development and testing are required before the service can be reliably offered to the public.

There are also broader concerns to consider. The expansion of satellite connectivity raises questions about its impact on the night sky, with astronomers warning that an increasing number of satellites could interfere with space observations. Others have questioned whether eliminating mobile ‘not-spots’ entirely is beneficial, as some value the ability to disconnect in remote locations. The issue of cost is another key factor, as Vodafone has yet to confirm how much customers will need to pay to access the service. If pricing is too high, the benefits of satellite connectivity may be limited to specific industries or wealthier consumers rather than the wider public.

Despite these challenges, Vodafone’s innovation signals a shift in how mobile connectivity is delivered. Rather than replacing existing terrestrial networks, this technology is likely to act as a complementary solution, ensuring coverage in places where it has previously been unfeasible. For Vodafone, it cements its position as a leader in mobile network evolution, following on from its historic role in launching the UK’s first mobile call 40 years ago. For the wider industry, it sets a precedent that other telecoms providers will inevitably follow, as companies explore ways to integrate satellite connectivity into their networks.

This breakthrough is essentially a glimpse into the future of mobile communications. While it is not yet a complete solution, it has the potential to reshape the way people stay connected, providing mobile broadband access to areas that have long been left behind. If Vodafone and its partners can overcome the technical and regulatory obstacles, satellite-to-smartphone connectivity could redefine what it means to be online, anytime, anywhere.