In an ambitious stride to expand connectivity, UK-based cellular IoT MVNO Eseye is collaborating with satellite connectivity provider Sateliot. This partnership aims to extend IoT network coverage to regions where terrestrial networks fall short. Sateliot is developing a low-earth orbit (LEO) NB-IoT satellite constellation, leveraging 5G NR Release 17 standards. The initiative took off with satellite launches aboard SpaceX rockets in August, anticipating the connection of 8 million IoT devices.
Sateliot, headquartered in Barcelona, offers an NB-IoT satellite solution for seamless multi-radio access technology connectivity via a single SIM. Their constellation aims for global coverage, bridging gaps where terrestrial networks lack presence. The system mimics standard roaming, thus ensuring uninterrupted IoT connectivity across both terrestrial and satellite networks.
Sateliot positions its satellites in polar orbits to deliver complete global coverage. Meanwhile, Eseye provides cellular IoT services through collaborations with over 700 operators in nearly 190 countries. Sateliot’s business strategy involves wholesaling NB-IoT as a roaming extension for ground-based operators, with plans to raise €30 million in a series B funding round. The company’s ambitious goal targets revenue of €1 billion by 2030, backed by a virtualized cloud-native 5G core, developed in partnership with AWS.
Telefónica is currently testing the service, and Sateliot is also working with Swedish firm Sentrisense and freight software provider t42. These efforts underline Sateliot’s intent to revolutionize connectivity in hard-to-reach areas.
Gianluca Redolfi, Sateliot’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the company’s operational and regulatory edge, stating, “Our strength comes from being ahead in operations, sales, and regulatory compliance. While many competitors face challenges like landing rights or sales, Sateliot stands out because we started working on the standard early, were the first to support it, and have gained strong backing from the industry.”
Adam Hayes, Chief Operating Officer at Eseye, confirmed the strategic partnership: “Customers want their devices to connect and by working with Sateliot we can extend coverage beyond the current cellular offer. Together, we are paving the way for seamless, global connectivity that takes Eseye’s already highly resilient network to new heights to enable the interconnected world of tomorrow.”
