Chunghwa Telecom is partnering with Astranis to launch Taiwan’s first dedicated geostationary satellite, enhancing national connectivity and infrastructure resilience. Scheduled for deployment by 2025, the project is part of a larger satellite program and reflects Taiwan’s commitment to secure communication systems.
The FCC has approved AT&T and AST SpaceMobile to test direct-to-cell satellite connectivity for FirstNet. This initiative aims to enhance public safety communications by extending reliable service to remote and disaster-affected areas through low Earth orbit satellites.
KDDI and Okinawa Cellular, in partnership with Starlink, have launched au Starlink Direct — Japan’s first direct-to-device satellite service. Starting April 10, 2025, au users can enjoy seamless connectivity even beyond network zones, enabling emergency alerts, location sharing, and AI-powered assistance, all at no extra cost.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper is on the cusp of launching its first major batch of satellites, marking a significant step toward global satellite broadband. Scheduled for April 9th, the KA-01 mission will deploy 27 satellites, advancing Amazon’s venture into offering low-latency internet worldwide.
Ofcom’s bold proposal positions the UK as Europe’s pioneer in direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services, enhancing mobile connectivity by bypassing traditional equipment. Utilizing existing 4G and 5G spectrum, this approach promises to boost rural coverage and drive innovation.
Spain has invested €13.8M in Sateliot to enhance its LEO satellite constellation for defense, security, and logistics. With €58.8M raised in its Series B round, plus a €30M EIB loan, Sateliot aims to revolutionize global IoT connectivity via 5G satellites, targeting €1B revenue by 2030.
Verizon has expanded its satellite-based direct-to-cell texting service, enhancing connectivity for select Android users. This upgrade enables text messaging via satellite, benefiting those outside traditional networks.
Orange has partnered with Telesat to provide satellite-based connectivity via the Lightspeed LEO network. As part of the deal, Orange will host a Telesat landing station in France, enhancing global connectivity. With 14 planned SpaceX launches, the network will deliver high-speed services, expanding Orange’s satellite capabilities across Europe, Africa, and beyond.
Semtech Corporation has launched advanced 5G initiatives, featuring the EM9492 and EM9295 modules powered by Qualcomm technology. The EM9492 enhances high-end IoT devices, while the EM9295 balances cost and performance for wider 5G adoption.
At MWC 2025, Giesecke+Devrient (G+D) announced a major leap in satellite IoT, partnering with Skylo and Sateliot to offer 5G-compatible NB-IoT services via GEO and LEO satellites. This move enhances global IoT coverage, addressing connectivity gaps in remote areas and benefiting industries like logistics and agriculture.
