OneWeb’s constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites will enhance network coverage for Softbank, particularly in challenging regions. The move aligns with Softbank’s ‘Ubiquitous Network’ strategy, which unifies diverse non-terrestrial network (NTN) solutions to expand digital services. Besides its surprise partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink, Softbank continues to boost its stake in OneWeb, supporting its Japanese launch and integration into the Ubiquitous Network.
Amazon’s Project Kuiper and Vodafone join forces to bolster 4G and 5G availability in Europe and Africa using cost-effective low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This partnership aims to connect distant cellular antennas to core networks, enabling telecom services without relying on intricate fibre-based systems. With a larger goal of bridging the digital divide, the collaboration also plans to offer backup services for disruptions and connect distant infrastructure.
Delving into satellite technology, Telefónica forms a strategic alliance with Starlink to enhance global connectivity, specifically targeting rural and hard-to-reach regions. With initial implementation in Mexico, this high-speed internet service is set to expand to five more markets, indicating a promising shift in accessible global digital inclusion. But is this the harbinger of a new connectivity era or just a companion to existing solutions?
The UK government’s ambitious Connectivity in Low Earth Orbit (CLEO) initiative aims to propel satellite communications development, backed by a sum of £160 million. With a main focus on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, this programme holds potential to bridge the digital divide and boost economical growth. This initiative, however, still awaits the green light through regular approval processes.
Elon Musk’s ambitious plans to bring Starlink to India face challenges amidst spectrum policy clashes with local telecom operators. As the competition heats up in India’s satellite communication space, the sector’s future remains a hot topic.
Telstra and OneWeb collaborate to deliver a massive low Earth orbit (LEO) backhaul rollout, expanding connectivity for remote mobile customers in Australia and extending coverage to hard-to-reach regions.
OneWeb partners with Speedcast and F. Laeisz to launch a maritime connectivity service, providing hybrid satellite solutions to improve connectivity in remote polar regions, advancing the benefits of multi-path, multi-orbit technologies.
UK’s latest telecommunications initiatives involve satellite broadband for remote Scottish regions, collaborating with Australia on telecoms diversification, and implementing advanced digital infrastructure such as smart lampposts, showcasing its commitment to becoming a global industry leader.
AST SpaceMobile has made history by successfully connecting a direct voice call between the United States and Japan via its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, using standard smartphones. The use of standard smartphones makes this a world first, as no one has previously achieved a direct voice connection from space to unmodified cellular devices. AST SpaceMobile partnered with some of its mobile operator partners, including AT&T, Rakuten, and Vodafone, to make the connection. The test call was made using AT&T spectrum and a Samsung Galaxy S22 smartphone in the Midland, Texas area, connecting to Rakuten in Japan. The successful test call validated AST SpaceMobile’s network architecture and systems, including its BW3 satellite, which it describes as the largest commercial communications array in low-earth orbit. The call also paves the way for space-based cellular broadband. AST SpaceMobile’s goal is to provide coverage to close to 50% of the world’s population…
The EU Secure Connectivity Program has welcomed Rivada Space Networks, a wireless technology company focused on open access wholesale and the fusion of terrestrial and satellite communications. The EU space-based, secure communication system proposes to use the most recent quantum communication technology for secure encryption in order to accommodate growing and changing governmental and business demands. The program aims to enable access to advanced, dependable and high-speed connectivity for citizens and businesses across Europe, including coverage of communication dead zones. This initiative is aimed at ensuring cohesion among Member States, and providing the long-term availability of worldwide uninterrupted secure and cost-effective satellite communication services. In its submission to the EU Secure Connectivity Program’s preliminary market consultation, Rivada Space Networks outlined the main characteristics of its laser-linked LEO constellation architecture. The business also suggests that the member nations and project stakeholders should use its Open Access Wireless Marketplace platform…
