Mobile connectivity trends: Satellite messaging and 5G performance

Recent developments in mobile connectivity highlight both the expansion of satellite-to-phone technology and the performance of terrestrial 5G networks. Direct satellite connectivity, such as the plans proposed by SpaceX for Starlink Mobile, allows devices to send emergency signals or short texts in areas without cellular towers. However, this technology currently faces limitations in speed, capacity, and visibility due to the distance between the phone's small antenna and the satellite, as well as physical obstructions like mountains or buildings.

In Lithuania, Ookla data for the first half of 2026 identifies Tele2 as having the fastest 5G network based on real-world user measurements from Speedtest. Tele2 has achieved 5G coverage for 91.5% of the Lithuanian population, utilizing over 1,220 5G-capable base stations. The company continues to invest in radio spectrum and network capacity to meet the rising demand for high-definition video, cloud services, and remote work tools.