The UK government is launching three innovative satellite projects to improve broadband access in remote areas. Combining LEO and GEO technology, these initiatives target isolated regions like Rathlin Island and Papa Stour.
In a remarkable innovation for VoIP, Deutsche Telekom, Skylo, and Qualcomm have successfully trialed Europe’s first satellite-borne SMS service directly to handsets. Utilizing Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X-80 5G Modem-RF System, this technology promises to enhance connectivity in remote areas.
Reliance Jio is intensifying its push to mandate satellite spectrum auctions, arguing that direct allocation allows firms like SpaceX’s Starlink to unfairly undercut traditional wireless operators on pricing. As India’s telecom regulator evaluates implications from satellite competitors like Amazon’s Kuiper, the urgency grows to level the regulatory playing field.
The UK’s armed forces will boost their intelligence capabilities with the 2027 launch of the Juno satellite. Led by SSTL, this £40 million project will create 200 skilled jobs, enhance surveillance, and aid environmental monitoring.
Globalstar has announced a groundbreaking $1.1 billion partnership with Apple to boost its satellite network capabilities. This collaboration will revolutionize Globalstar’s mobile satellite services, utilizing new satellite constellations and infrastructure.
KT and its subsidiary KT SAT have revolutionized 5G connectivity through KOREASAT 6 integration with a 5G non-terrestrial network. This milestone utilizes the 5G NTN standard, expanding 5G services to remote areas. Their pioneering trials highlight NTN’s potential for 5G and future 6G innovations, overcoming geographical challenges.
Barcelona-based satellite IoT provider Sateliot has secured €10 million in a Series B funding round led by Global Portfolio Investments. This investment will enhance Sateliot’s NB-IoT constellation, aiming for 100 satellites by 2028. The company plans to offer real-time global coverage, targeting sectors like agriculture, industry, and logistics.
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.
