BT’s recent talks with SpaceX to leverage Starlink’s LEO satellite fleet for remote connectivity in the UK has sparked curiosity, especially given BT’s current partnership with OneWeb, Starlink’s competition. It’s speculated that Starlink’s innovative direct-to-device capabilities, which promise unblemished global coverage without a need for a terminal, could be the allure.
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…
