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.
Eutelsat Group, MediaTek, and Airbus Defence and Space have successfully trialed 5G Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This milestone paves the way for seamless satellite and terrestrial network integration, expanding global 5G accessibility.
Mavenir and Terrestar Solutions achieved a major milestone in satellite communications by completing a Voice over NB-IoT call using Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) on a 3GPP-standardized S-band spectrum. This breakthrough paves the way for NTN-based NB-IoT solutions, future 5G integration, and expanded connectivity.
Verizon and AT&T have achieved a breakthrough in satellite connectivity, completing NTN video calls via AST SpaceMobile’s Bluebird LEO satellites. This innovation enhances communication in remote areas, with AST SpaceMobile promising 120 Mbps speeds.
T-Mobile US introduces its Starlink public beta, addressing network gaps by covering over 500,000 miles where traditional networks struggle. The Starlink service ensures seamless connectivity, automatically switching networks when out of coverage.
