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.
The UK Space Agency has awarded £16 million to EnSilica and Excelerate Technology under its C-LEO programme. This investment enhances connectivity, particularly in remote areas, and strengthens Britain’s role in the global satellite market.
The UK telecommunications regulator, Ofcom, has granted a crucial licence to Amazon Kuiper satellite constellation. This move aims to enhance satellite internet services across the UK, especially in rural areas.
AST SpaceMobile has secured temporary FCC approval to test its direct-to-device satellite broadband service via BlueBird satellites. These tests, using unmodified Verizon and AT&T phones, could enhance nationwide connectivity.
Apple is reportedly testing direct satellite connectivity for iPhones in partnership with Starlink and T-Mobile. This initiative, enabled by iOS 18.3, allows select T-Mobile users to text via satellite in areas without cellular coverage.
Vodafone has achieved a world first: a non-terrestrial video call using an unmodified 4G/5G smartphone via AST SpaceMobile’s BlueBird satellites. This milestone highlights the fusion of satellite and cellular networks, extending coverage to remote areas.
