Ericsson has joined the Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA) to promote Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and advance direct-to-cellular and IoT communications. This collaboration leverages satellite spectrum to enhance mobile coverage globally. With MSSA’s focus on integrating terrestrial and satellite networks, Ericsson aims to provide seamless, reliable connectivity worldwide.
AST SpaceMobile’s five BlueBird satellites are set to launch on September 12, heralding the start of their commercial non-terrestrial network services in collaboration with carriers like Verizon and AT&T. This pivotal event not only enhances global cellular connectivity but also signifies a major milestone in low Earth orbit telecommunications.
SoftBank and Eutelsat’s OneWeb have partnered to enhance communication services in Japan by integrating OneWeb’s LEO satellite connectivity. The multi-year deal will improve secure, reliable communications, particularly in remote areas. SoftBank’s SmartVPN service will benefit, and there’s potential for expansion abroad.
The UK Ministry of Defence has successfully launched its own satellite, ‘Tyche’, revolutionizing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This pivotal event marks the UK’s leap forward in space-based defense. As part of a broader initiative, Tyche will bolster military operations, disaster response, and environmental monitoring, reinforcing national security and technological innovation.
Barcelona-based Sateliot has launched four LEO nanosatellites via SpaceX to expand its satellite IoT services. This move aims to connect eight million devices and secure €30 million in funding. Utilizing a 5G core through AWS, Sateliot’s NB-IoT constellation targets 100% global coverage and offers cost-saving IoT solutions.
Skylo’s cutting-edge NTN connectivity enhances the Google Pixel 9 series, ensuring reliable emergency communication where terrestrial networks fail. For the first time, Pixel users can connect to emergency services via satellite. This collaborative innovation between Skylo and Google marks a new era in mobile connectivity, delivering essential support in remote areas.
Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology (SSST) is set to launch its first batch of satellites, challenging SpaceX’s Starlink. This launch, part of China’s G60 Starlink Plan, aims to deploy 15,000 low Earth orbit satellites by 2030, marking a significant step in China’s strategic competition with the United States.
AST SpaceMobile is gearing up for a significant milestone with the upcoming launch of its first commercial satellites. Set for early August, the five new Bluebird satellites will enhance the company’s ability to offer non-continuous commercial VoIP services. Once deployed in low Earth orbit, these satellites will revolutionize remote mobile coverage via direct-to-device communications.
Soracom’s commercial rollout of satellite NB-IoT, in partnership with Skylo Technologies, is revolutionizing IoT connectivity. Leveraging Skylo’s LEO satellite constellation, Soracom provides seamless integration of cellular and satellite IoT networks through its cloud platform. This advancement empowers businesses with reliable, global IoT services, enhancing connectivity even in remote areas.
Amazon has inaugurated a new facility in Kirkland, Washington, dedicated to the production of satellites for its Project Kuiper. This project aims to establish a constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites to provide internet connectivity.
