Viasat and Skylo Technologies are set to launch a pioneering global network that directly connects devices for IoT and logistics applications. This development signifies a major leap in communications technology, combining the strengths of satellite communications and non-terrestrial networks.
Under this new partnership, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), device makers, and chipset manufacturers will be able to bring products compliant with the 3GPP Release 17 standards to market using Viasat’s extensive network coverage. Touted as the world’s first global direct-to-device (D2D) network, this venture is set to begin initial deployments in North America in early 2024, utilising the Ligado SkyTerra satellite network, with plans for a subsequent worldwide expansion.
The network is specifically designed to support a wide array of applications, including consumer smartphone services, massive IoT, automotive, and defense sectors. Viasat highlights the network’s potential to revolutionise various industries like food production, mining, and logistics, offering enhanced connectivity experiences. This advancement is expected to lower costs for end-users and improve global production and supply chain efficiency.
Viasat’s announcement underscores the opportunities this network will provide for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) looking to integrate connectivity into their products, ranging from smartphones and wearables to vehicles and machinery. IoT solution providers are set to benefit from widespread connectivity and cost-effective hardware, facilitating the scaling of their solutions on a global level.
Customers will have the option to access these services through either Viasat or Skylo. The network will incorporate Skylo’s Release-17-based satellite technology, combined with Inmarsat’s geostationary, L-band satellite constellation and licensed spectrum holdings, further expanded by Viasat’s acquisition of Inmarsat earlier this year.
Anton Monk, VP of Wireless Initiatives at Viasat, emphasises the network’s readiness for testing and its potential for global market entry. He highlights the network’s foundation on L-band geostationary satellite technology and its alignment with the 3GPP standard, ensuring interoperability and paving the way for future technological advancements.
Tarun Gupta, CPO and Co-Founder of Skylo, describes the development as an inflection point for connectivity. By merging Skylo’s innovative technology with Viasat’s network and spectrum capabilities, they aim to deliver high-quality, affordable connectivity worldwide, with the potential to revolutionise various industries and enhance life in both urban and remote areas.
This announcement comes amidst other significant advancements in space-based IoT services, including Viasat’s collaboration with Omnispace and Lacuna Space, and Lockheed Martin’s recent demonstration of its first regenerative non-terrestrial network 5G Satellite Base Station (gNodeB). These developments collectively signal a new era in IoT and D2D satellite services, demonstrating the rapidly evolving landscape of space-based communications technology.
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