The satellite direct-to-device (D2D) from low Earth orbit (LEO) revenue in Asia-Pacific (APAC) will increase from $0.1 million in 2024 to $646.8 million in 2029 at a 28.6% compound annual growth rate (2025–2029). Connectivity services will mainly drive satellite D2D revenue. APAC will be a key market due to its combination of geography and vulnerability to natural disasters that can cause widespread damage to critical infrastructure. In this region, which has countries with large land masses and thousands of islands, approximately 55% of the population remains without internet connectivity.

Satellite D2D from LEO will increase the competition level for satellite connectivity and address issues related to the affordability of basic services. Two possibilities are being investigated: as a backup and as a complementary to terrestrial carrier-dependent mobile services. The certainty of connecting consumers and enterprises wherever they are, especially in an emergency, will bring benefits in the form of reduced risks, less inconvenience for consumers, and less downtime for enterprises in the region.

Satellite providers, many in partnerships with mobile operators, are out to disrupt terrestrial approaches and practices. However, monetization and business case justification will be challenging. While there will be many trials, it is unlikely that many commercially viable services will serve the mass market before 2030. Global harmonization of spectrum and regulatory policy, ecosystem development, and standardization efforts will be crucial in ensuring interoperability and scalability across different satellite D2D from LEO networks and devices. Strong partnerships working on open solutions will have greater growth potential.

Author: Mei Lee Quah