As direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity reshapes global telecoms, two deployment models have become central: International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) and Mobile Satellite Services (MSS). While both promise new opportunities, their regulatory paths differ, and jurisdictions across the Americas (notably the U.S., Canada, and Brazil) are among the first to develop regulatory frameworks that support D2D-IMT.

Inspired by this, our opening session will explore, assess, and compare the roles and impacts of IMT and MSS models for D2D. Panelists will assess their comparative advantages and limitations while examining how these choices are influencing business strategy and market dynamics across the Americas. The session will also examine how MNOs and satellite providers are adapting, identify where regulation helps or imposes obstacles, and highlight best practices emerging from early adopters.

• What are the key strengths and limitations of deploying Direct-to-Device (D2D) connectivity using IMT and MSS spectrum frequencies across the Americas?
• How might differences between IMT- and MSS-based D2D models shape adoption patterns in Latin America and North America? In what ways do these models influence coverage, reliability, scalability, and regulatory alignment across diverse geographic and economic contexts?
• Do IMT and MSS stakeholders in the Americas share aligned goals, or do their business models and strategic priorities diverge? How are these dynamics impacting market competition, investment flows, and technological progress?
• Is one of the deployment models likely to become the prevailing standard, or can both approaches coexist in the long term? What key factors will shape which path the market ultimately takes?
• What key factors in the end-user experience will determine the success or failure of various D2D business models and approaches? How crucial will elements such as cost, coverage, and quality of service be in shaping user adoption and satisfaction?
• As countries like the USA, Canada, and Brazil take the lead in developing regulatory frameworks for D2D-IMT connectivity, how may this influence approaches more broadly on a regional and global level? To what extent could this help to serve as a blueprint for global coordination and harmonization?
• Is there potential for a dedicated D2D spectrum band in the Americas, or indeed globally, and what would be the benefits and challenges of such an approach?
• How do satellite operators and mobile network operators (MNOs) envision their evolving roles within the region’s D2D ecosystem? Are we heading toward increased collaboration or heightened competition between these actors?

With industry accelerating momentum for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity and several countries across the Americas beginning to adopt national strategies and regulatory frameworks, Session 2 will be split into two parts, allowing us to explore both regulatory and industry perspectives in detail.

First, regulators from various countries in the region will present their evolving strategies. They will outline their emerging regulatory frameworks, the opportunities and challenges they anticipate, and their plans to optimize the value of D2D connectivity.

In the second segment, industry representatives will respond to these regulatory developments, sharing how business strategy, investment certainty, and market dynamics are being affected. The discussion will also focus on where regulation is serving as an enabler and where it is creating friction, as well as identifying promising best practices.

• What are the key similarities and differences in how different countries across the Americas are approaching D2D connectivity regulation and spectrum allocation? How do these regulatory approaches compare to the rest of the world?
• How can regulators across the Americas create a policy environment that fosters both competition and innovation, ensuring a fair and dynamic D2D market?
• How should regulators across the region allocate spectrum and support D2D services while avoiding interference with existing networks?
• How can policymakers balance innovation with the protection of existing terrestrial and satellite services?
• What role will WRC-27 play in shaping the future of D2D connectivity in the Americas, particularly in spectrum allocation and coexistence between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks?

As the commercial frontier for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity begins to mature, business models continue to multiply, and forecasts show strong revenue potential. Yet, as the sector evolves, the question of long-term financial sustainability becomes ever more pressing. Indeed, to achieve widespread adoption, D2D must balance affordability for users with viable returns for mobile network operators (MNOs), satellite operators, and other ecosystem stakeholders.

Accordingly, this session will explore emerging business models, examine which monetization strategies are proving profitable, and assess how D2D is integrating into the current connectivity ecosystem across the Americas. As countries transition from 5G toward 6G, panelists will discuss how service providers can develop scalable, sustainable models that keep services accessible (especially in underserved or low-income areas) and which commercial use cases show the most promise. We will also consider whether the current trajectory of D2D connectivity matches market expectations, or whether cost, infrastructure, and regulatory hurdles risk slowing its growth.

• What are the most commercially viable use cases for D2D in the Americas, and how do they differ across the region and address existing connectivity gaps?
• How can D2D services be structured to remain both profitable and affordable, particularly in rural, underserved, and low-income areas? What market strategies are proving most effective in achieving this?
• What innovative applications of D2D connectivity are expected to drive consumer adoption and reshape the telecommunications market in the Americas?
• What high-value enterprise applications (e.g., industrial IoT, autonomous systems, smart agriculture) could accelerate D2D adoption and innovation?
• Can D2D technology meaningfully contribute to bridging the digital divide? What role might it play in helping MNOs meet universal service obligations and expand connectivity?
• How can financial barriers in unconnected regions be overcome, and how can these be addressed to create shared value for consumers and providers alike?
• Looking ahead to the 6G era and beyond, what is the long-term outlook for D2D in the Americas?
• Is the current momentum around D2D a reflection of genuine potential, or does it risk being overhyped?