Kinéis and Semtech make satellite connectivity more accessible for the Internet of Things (IoT) by reusing standard terrestrial solutions.

This complementarity will provide global coverage to millions of users in a simple and direct manner.

Kinéis spatial connectivity easily integrated into Semtech chips

Kinéis and Semtech are proud to announce this strategic collaboration that integrates satellite and terrestrial IoT into a single electronic chip. Kinéis is a French satellite operator and global connectivity provider for the Internet of Things (IoT), offering near real-time data transmission to end-users with low bandwidth (small messages) and very low power consumption. Semtech is a global provider of high-performance semiconductors, IoT LoRa® and cellular systems, and high-quality connectivity and cloud services.

Thanks to this collaboration, users of Semtech LoRa Edge chips (including LR1110 and LR1120) can now have global IoT connectivity by leveraging Kinéis satellite connectivity in addition to terrestrial LoRaWAN® connectivity, without adding additional electronic modules. This Kinéis-Semtech collaboration paves a simple way to implement hybrid terrestrial-satellite devices supporting multiple standard connectivity protocols.

Specifically, with Semtech LR1110 chips, a user of terrestrial LoRaWAN IoT connectivity can enhance the functionalities of their applications to:

• Receive data via terrestrial LoRaWAN connectivity when available,
• Receive data via Kinéis satellite IoT connectivity elsewhere,
• Receive complementary location data to GNSS information.

To enable partners using terrestrial IoT to access spatial connectivity, Kinéis provides them with a reference design, a guide to create an equivalent radio module.

On the occasion of the announcement of this close collaboration between Kinéis and Semtech, Alexandre Tisserant, President of Kinéis, stated: “This strategic collaboration meets market demand to combine the best available terrestrial and satellite networks, offering our customers continuous and absolutely global service, operating simply and transparently. The ability to use Kinéis technology on already available and widespread electronic components like those of Semtech illustrates the interest in rapid dissemination of satellite IoT applications.”

The Kinéis-Semtech offering highly anticipated by the IoT ecosystem

Kinéis is a key player in the satellite IoT market with sustainability sought by its customers. Only four years after its historic fundraising of 100 million euros, the Toulouse-based company will deploy, starting summer 2024, its constellation of 25 nanosatellites, the first European constellation dedicated to IoT.

The Kinéis-Semtech offer meets the expectations of IoT solution users. Among them, Beepings, as a pilot partner, welcomes this close collaboration between Kinéis and Semtech. Since 2017, Beepings has been developing autonomous tracking solutions with very long autonomy using the most innovative technologies, both in Indoor/Outdoor geolocation and data transmission for various external sensors.

Its President, Pierre Fourmestraux, speaks about this complementarity between terrestrial IoT and spatial IoT:

“The Kinéis-Semtech partnership simplifies access to satellite IoT and also reduces the cost of solutions thanks to the LR1110 chip. Beepings is already in the pre-industrialization phase of its first solutions based on Kinéis spatial connectivity and is able to consider very promising new application fields.”

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Next-generation IoT enabler – Myriota FlexSense – offers a fast and low-risk path to empower Solution Providers and OEMs to develop sensing solutions, validate real world value and streamline their pathway to market

Myriota, the global telco for field generated intelligence, has announced the launch of Myriota FlexSense, the fastest deploy-ready hardware platform for developers seeking to build capable sensor based solutions.

The device is designed with advanced Bluetooth Low Energy and multi-sensor capabilities and is enabled by Myriota’s low-power satellite connectivity. With capacity for four AA batteries, FlexSense can be configured to last in excess of ten years.

An industry-first, FlexSense enables solution providers and OEMs to develop and deliver tracking and sensing IoT solutions within months, not years. Taking minutes to deploy from unboxing to installation, FlexSense offers a code-free experience for a host of applications, including location monitoring and humidity, pressure, temperature and vibration sensing.

FlexSense provides critical connectivity for remote tracking and sensing data wherever it’s needed. With this solution, Myriota enables partners to significantly reduce development costs and complexity, and accelerate market entry. The device features a highly rugged and resilient IP67-rated, UV-resistant enclosure, operational from -30°C to +70°C (-22°F to 158°F), and comes with a preinstalled 3m cable equipped with versatile sensor interfaces including analogue, digital, serial, and I2C. Perfect for rigorous real world field trials.

Ben Cade, CEO, commented:

“With FlexSense we redefine the IoT landscape, making it easier than ever before for developers to design and deploy IoT solutions that work anywhere. The technology works seamlessly with a variety of sensors, meaning our partners can rapidly customise the hardware to meet their unique specifications across a wide range of use cases.”

“Our technology is trusted by Solutions Providers and OEMs looking to bring best-in-class IoT solutions to sectors including agriculture, water, and transport & logistics, as well as a whole host of environmental applications. Our global reach is testament to the trust our customers have in the reliability of our hardware and services, and our ability to provide them with a competitive edge in an ever-changing global market.”

The technology, which is now being rolled out globally, has been rigorously tested ahead of launch. This includes Denmark-headquartered Grundfos, the global pump and water solutions company, which is using Myriota FlexSense ready-to-deploy hardware to deliver a robust pump and tank monitoring system.

Tom Drew, Global Business Development Manager, Solar, Grundfos commented: “Myriota is an indispensable partner for our business, enabling us to deliver our energy and water solutions for a wide range of use cases across the globe. Their low-power connectivity enables our customers to optimise operations over huge distances, reduce energy consumption, and maximise sustainability, while also ensuring faster response times to issues such as water leaks.”

As OEMs’ sales volumes increase, they can easily switch from FlexSense to fully-customised solutions built using the Myriota Module. This gives OEMs a quick and low-risk route to building solutions that meet precise economic and form factor requirements.

FlexSense is the latest partner enabling solution from Australian headquartered Myriota. The company achieved 300% growth in deployed devices in FY2023, and is rapidly scaling deployments across APAC, USA, EMEA, and LATAM.

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Skylo Technologies has certified Sony’s Altair ALT1250 chipset for its satellite network. The certification enables seamless support for both cellular and native satellite connectivity in devices without manual switching. Sony’s Altair ALT1250 chipset, meeting Skylo’s high standards, opens up opportunities for remote tracking, IoT devices, wearables, and global communication solutions. The integration of this chipset with Skylo’s network accelerates the deployment of satellite-connected IoT solutions across industries such as fleet management, logistics, and agriculture.

Skylo Technologies, the pioneer in satellite network connectivity, today announces the certification of Sony Semiconductor Israel’s (Sony) ALT1250 chipset as part of the Skylo Certification Program.

All devices incorporating the chipset will seamlessly support both cellular and native satellite connectivity without requiring the user to manually switch between the two. Connectivity plans and devices are available through a Skylo mobile service provider partner.

Sony’s Altair ALT1250 has passed rigorous testing and evaluation, proving its capability to meet Skylo’s high standards for connectivity, power efficiency, and reliability. Now, devices equipped with the ALT1250 chipset can operate on Skylo’s satellite network, providing endless opportunities for remote tracking and sensing, IoT devices, wearables, and global communication solutions.

“We are excited to have Sony’s Altair ALT1250 achieve certification under Skylo’s program. This certification milestone will simplify module and end-device onboarding to Skylo’s enabled NTN,” said Dima Feldman, VP Product Management and Marketing at Sony Semiconductor Israel. “Our OneSKU technology now includes satellite communication and opens up a myriad of possibilities for innovation providing connectivity in multiple countries around the globe, both in urban and remote areas.”

Skylo’s Certification Program empowers manufacturers and developers by endorsing chipsets and devices that are fully compatible with its satellite-based communication platform. By doing so, Skylo is fostering a vast ecosystem of connected devices that can operate anywhere in the world. The integration of Sony’s Altair ALT1250 chipset with Skylo’s network will accelerate the deployment of satellite-connected IoT solutions globally, enabling data-driven decision-making across a host of industries including fleet management, logistics, agriculture, and beyond.

“This achievement under the Skylo Certification Program is no small feat. Sony’s Altair had to pass rigorous testing to ensure reliability, efficiency, and seamless integration for efficient operations over Skylo’s satellite network,” said Prasanna Iyengar, Sr. Director of Product Management for Skylo.

“It marks a significant milestone in IoT and wearables connectivity, enabling manufacturers to effortlessly incorporate NTN connectivity into their devices without the need for additional hardware modifications. This ensures that NTN is not just a feature but the foundation of ubiquitous connectivity.”

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A fully managed service combines cellular and satellite connectivity to expand options for global IoT and enterprises worldwide.

Wireless Logic, the leading global IoT connectivity platform provider, has secured authorised reseller status for SpaceX’s Starlink.

The agreement integrates Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity into Wireless Logic’s extensive portfolio of managed services, offering greater flexibility and choice for global IoT deployments.

“Leveraging cellular and satellite connectivity offers the best of both worlds, given the advantages of both technologies,” said Oliver Tucker, CEO at Wireless Logic.

“This milestone agreement underlines our commitment to innovation. While cellular remains a cornerstone for many applications, the addition of satellite connectivity is a game-changer – especially in challenging cross-border environments and areas of weak coverage. At Wireless Logic, we believe in carefully considering all aspects of connectivity to offer the most suitable option for each deployment. For our customers, this ensures our solutions are always tailored to their business objectives.”

Wireless Logic will utilise the global support capability of its subsidiary Blue Wireless to deliver an integrated, managed service combining both LEO technology and LTE/5G, data plans, installation and on-site support in more than 70 countries worldwide. This is all underpinned with guaranteed SLAs on uptime and speed. Wireless Logic acquired Blue Wireless in 2023 to strengthen its presence across APAC and Americas, while enhancing its offering around fixed wireless access.

“Our customers rely on us to bridge connectivity gaps, no matter how remote or demanding their operations may be,” said Ivan Landen, CEO at Blue Wireless.

“By harnessing the combined strength of 5G/LTE and satellite technologies, we can deliver a unique proposition for industries like energy, agriculture, mining, construction and maritime. This extends to other organisations needing resilient branch, portable or mobile connectivity. Our Global Managed LEO proposition helps global customers overcome typical challenges like procurement, installation, support and in-life performance.”

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Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, today announces the launch of the Quectel BG95-S5 3GPP non-terrestrial network (NTN) satellite communication module.

The module supports 3GPP Release 17 IoT-NTN in the S and L band frequencies for satellite communications. In addition, the multi-mode BG95-S5 supports LTE Cat M1, Cat NB2, eGPRS and integrated GNSS.

With a cost-effective SMT form factor measuring 23.6 mm × 19.9 mm × 2.2 mm, the BG95-S5 is ideal for space constrained use cases that need to be able to access multiple types of network technology. With NTN satellite communication growing in popularity as constellations are built, having the capability to connect via NTN, cellular and GNSS offers significant flexibility for designers. It ensures devices will be able to find connections regardless of their deployment location or whether NTNs are available at the moment of communication.

Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions says:

“This versatile module enables use cases that rely on ubiquitous connectivity to utilize NTNs or LTE Cat M1, Cat NB2, eGPRS or GNSS depending on availability in the deployment location.”

“The small size and low power consumption offer designers maximized options and we expect to see the BG95-S5 deployed in devices from wireless point of sale equipment to asset management, heavy industry, and wearable devices.”

A further benefit is the module’s low power consumption and extended temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C. For developers and designers, Quectel supports accelerated time-to-market with reference designs, evaluation tools and technical support all available to assist development efforts. Certification procedures are underway for Skylo’s NTN, North American cellular carriers and regulatory certification in Europe, North America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

The module shares identical pin assignments with other variants in the BG95 series, facilitating seamless migration for device manufacturers to NTN networks. A comprehensive array of Internet protocols, industry-standard interfaces, and diverse functionalities greatly enhance the module’s versatility, enabling its integration into various M2M applications.

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Semtech Corporation, a high-performance semiconductor, IoT systems, and connectivity service provider, today announced the integration of Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) support into its HL series LPWA modules, specifically the HL7810 and HL7812.

This significant advancement showcases a major leap forward in enabling uninterrupted global connectivity even amidst the most challenging conditions.

Connectivity is crucial for ensuring safety and driving business success. Semtech’s LPWA HL78 modules, now upgraded with NTN support via a straightforward software update, enable devices to maintain dependable global connectivity through satellite networks, supporting continuous connection even in the most isolated regions.

Semtech has partnered with Skylo, a pioneer in offering satellite over cellular services, to integrate NTN capabilities into its HL series modules. As a result of this collaboration, Semtech’s upcoming software update, slated for commercial release in Q2 and pending testing and certification on Skylo’s network, will provide access to Skylo’s expansive network. This strategic partnership is a testament to Semtech’s commitment to enhancing global connectivity options, enabling devices equipped with HL78 modules to maintain reliable communication links, even in the most remote areas.

Providing customers with the option to connect using NB-IoT over a satellite network when traditional terrestrial coverage fails, not only enhances the reliability of global communication but also greatly minimizes waste and loss. This is especially crucial for sectors like shipping and emergency management. The ability to maintain continuous coverage, particularly in applications like container tracking, addresses the challenges posed by the limitations of conventional cellular networks, marking a significant advancement in enabling consistent connectivity.

Michael Buonassisi, Director Product Management LPWA modules at Semtech, stated:

“By incorporating NTN support into our HL78 modules via a straightforward software update, we are enhancing the capabilities of our existing products, providing our customers with a substantial competitive edge.”

“This initiative demonstrates our dedication to innovation and our proactive approach to addressing the market’s evolving needs.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Semtech to bring the power of Non-Terrestrial Networks to the HL series modules. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our mission to bridge the connectivity gap, providing reliable, global communication solutions that meet the needs of today’s digital world. Together with Semtech, we are setting a new standard for connectivity, ensuring that no device is left unconnected, no matter where it is located on the globe,” said Dr. Andrew Nuttal, CTO and Co-Founder of Skylo.

In addition to supporting satellite, the highly versatile HL78 modules can also support terrestrial LPWA networks using Cat-M and NB-IoT. By pairing with AirVantage® Smart Connectivity, customers can take advantage of one global SIM as well as a single point of access to both device and SIM lifecycle management. This compatibility underscores Semtech’s commitment to providing comprehensive connectivity solutions, from device to cloud, that cater to a wide range of customer needs.

“As the communication industry evolves towards more integrated and versatile solutions, Semtech continues to lead the way, driving innovation and delivering technologies that connect the world,” added Nicolas Damour, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships at Semtech.

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Omnispace, the company redefining mobile connectivity for the 21st century, today announced a collaboration with MTN, the largest mobile network operator in Africa.

MTN provides voice, data, fintech, digital, enterprise, wholesale and API services to over 290 million customers in 19 countries. This partnership will explore the use of S-band for satellite services to expand MTN’s portfolio of wireless service in their markets.

This initiative underscores Omnispace and MTN’s joint commitment to developing cost-effective global connectivity solutions beyond existing cellular, land-based networks. The companies will explore the integration of MTN’s terrestrial mobile networks with the Omnispace non-terrestrial (NTN) network, leveraging 3GPP standards, to serve consumer mobile and enterprise IoT services. Furthermore, the companies will also explore how they may collaborate on the development and growth of an ecosystem of devices and software.

“This collaborative effort would offer access to secure, cost-effective, ubiquitous 5G mobile connectivity by seamlessly integrating our respective satellite and terrestrial networks,” said Ram Viswanathan, CEO of Omnispace. “Omnispace is pleased to work together with MTN to deliver this first-of-its-kind, 3GPP standards-based solution to add non-terrestrial network connectivity to a large ecosystem of compatible devices, products and applications.”

Mazen Mroué, MTN Group Chief Technology and Information Officer, said:

“Through this collaboration, we aim to methodically extend the reach of our services, understanding the profound role connectivity plays in shaping societies and supporting growth.”

“Our partnership with Omnispace is a strategic step towards ensuring consistent, reliable access to our network, contributing to the foundational infrastructure that supports a digitally inclusive future, enabling the benefits of a modern connected life for all.”

Under the agreement, Omnispace will develop a next-generation standards-based mobile and IoT network designed to serve MTN markets. In the interim, the companies will partner to test existing technology, prove capabilities, and use cases using Omnispace’s on-orbit satellites.

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It will begin to recurrently bill €187 million in binding orders signed with 350 clients in over 50 countries.

Sateliot, the first company to operate a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) 5G IoT satellite constellation acting as a seamless roaming extension of cellular networks, will launch four new satellites into space this year with SpaceX.

With the deployment of these four satellites plus the two already orbiting the Earth, Sateliot enters the first phase of its constellation, opening its commercial phase.

Sateliot, which counts partners such as Indra, Cellnex, or Sepides, will begin billing the €187 million of binding orders with over 350 clients in more than 50 countries worldwide. With these recurring revenues, the company aims to generate €500 million in revenue by 2027 and become a one billion revenue company by 2030.

The Spanish company has recently raised €13.5 million; of these, €6 million came from Banco Santander, €5 million from a convertible note, and the remaining €2.5 million from a participative loan from the public company Avançsa. These funds, along with the start of Series B, will allow it to advance its technology development, launch the four satellites, and strengthen the human team for the complete deployment of its constellation in 2027/2028, providing real-time coverage worldwide.

What are the satellites like?

The satellites consist of 4 cubesats, each 20 x 10 x 35 centimeters in size. They are the size of a microwave and have a net weight of 10 kilograms. They will orbit at an altitude of between 500 and 600 kilometers, have a lifespan of five years, and cover 100% of the planet.

However, the fundamental part of these satellites lies in their interior, supported by their own innovative technology tested and validated by the European Space Agency (ESA) and the 3GPP, the organization that periodically brings together the main actors in the telecommunications sector. This technology is standard and democratic, open to all citizens, public administrations, and companies.

Being standard makes it scalable, easy to maintain, and updated, allowing for the progressive deployment of the constellation according to customer demands. It starts with connectivity services for IoT applications such as agriculture, which only require two daily messages, and ends with real-time services worldwide. In this way, Sateliot can provide service with its first-phase constellation as opposed to other companies that need to deploy
many more satellites for a similar commercial start.

Sateliot is renowned worldwide for satellite IoT and is one of the main companies driving the Spanish New Space, a strategic sector that has taken advantage of technological advances, reduced development times, and low investment costs to give renewed impetus to the industry.

Jaume Sanpera, CEO and co-founder of Sateliot said,

“We are ready to enter a new dimension, both technologically and commercially. We are closer to becoming the first IoT constellation operating worldwide under the 5G standard. And we will place Spain at the forefront of the New Space revolution.”

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Missions include a constellation satellite for monitoring methane gas emissions and two satellites for the world’s largest 5G Narrowband-IoT constellation

Kongsberg NanoAvionics (“NanoAvionics”), a leading smallsat bus manufacturer and mission integrator, has announced that four of its manufactured satellites are going into orbit aboard the upcoming SpaceX Transporter-10 mission.

NanoAvionics’s three customers on this rideshare mission are Luxembourg’s OQ Technology, the world’s first global satellite 5G IoT (Internet of Things) operator, Spanish Earth observation (EO) company Satlantis, and South Korea’s Contec, a ground station operator and service provider.

OQ Technology’s Tiger-7 and Tiger-8 nanosatellites will expand the world’s first and largest 5G Narrowband-IoT constellation in low Earth orbit (LEO) to ten satellites. The two 6U nanosatellites constitute the fifth and sixth satellite that NanoAvionics has manufactured for OQ Technology. All of OQ Technology’s constellation satellites can connect directly to off-the-shelf IoT devices and machines and provide tracking and monitoring information.

The 16U HORACIO satellite will be Satlantis’ third satellite embarking its iSIM-90 imager into space. Its high-resolution data will give insights for multiple EO applications, such as infrastructure monitoring, methane gas emissions quantification, food security, and coastal and border awareness.

The “CONTECSAT-1” satellite is aimed at companies and organisations requiring data for maritime environments, city management, and agriculture. The 16U nanosatellite has an integrated multispectral imager, supplied by a NanoAvionics’s partner, with 1,5 m resolution. It will enable Contec to produce customised satellite imagery for their customers.

Žilvinas Kvedaravičius, CEO of Kongsberg NanoAvionics, said: “Our continued record of successfully building and launching nano- and microsatellites for individual missions as well as constellations is testimony to our position as the one of the prime smallsat manufacturers and mission operators in the US and Europe. The ongoing satellite production for existing customers is also an endorsement and validation of the high-quality and cost-effectiveness of our products and services. As a result, NanoAvionics has successfully launched more nanosatellites in the past five years than any other external manufacturer in the world, and we see a surging demand for our microsatellite buses, too.”

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Satellite IoT connectivity enables monitoring in remote forest locations.

Today, EchoStar Mobile Limited, an EchoStar company, announced that Dryad Networks has made an initial purchase of 3,000 EM2050 LoRaWAN® modules and related connectivity services.

The modules, powered by Semtech’s ultra-low power LR1120 device, will provide embedded LoRaWAN satellite IoT capabilities for the Dryad Silvanet Gateways. Dryad’s Silvanet Suite of groundbreaking end-to-end wildfire detection technology is already deployed in 25 countries by a wide range of public and private sector organizations.

“Each year, wildfires are responsible for 20% of global CO2 emissions and cause $140 billion of financial damages,” said Carsten Brinkschulte, CEO and Co-founder of Dryad Networks. “Dryad Networks is committed to protecting public and private forests with fire detection and monitoring solutions and the EM2050 module from EchoStar Mobile gives us the features we need to enable large-scale deployments in areas with poor or non-existent terrestrial network coverage. The EM2050 module made sense because of its compliance to LoRaWAN standards, the world’s largest IoT ecosystem. The EM2050’s latest features, such as Semtech’s Long Range – Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (LR-FHSS) technology coupled with EchoStar Mobile’s powerful satellite IoT communications infrastructure will provide excellent support for Dryad’s Silvanet wireless distributed architecture network.”

Prior to working with EchoStar Mobile, Dryad relied primarily on terrestrial connectivity with limited support for satellite communications. Integrating the real-time communications and dual mode connectivity of the EM2050 module into the upcoming 3rd generation of Sylvanet gateways will make it possible for Dryad to make full-featured use of satellite links, including support for bi-directional communications, device configuration and Firmware Update Over The Air (FUOTA), enabling deployments independently of terrestrial network coverage.

“We are thrilled to power the Silvanet product line with the EM2050 LoRaWAN compatible module,” said Telemaco Melia, VP and GM of EchoStar Mobile.

“Satellite connectivity is necessary to assure reliable and cost-effective 100% coverage. And the EM2050 module supports multicast and FUOTA, optimizing operations and keeping the Silvanet devices up to date.”

“We believe that satellite IoT holds immense potential in delivering significant benefits across various applications, in particular, those targeting environmental protection like Dryad’s Silvanet Suite,” said Carlo Tinella, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Semtech. “By providing affordable wireless connectivity in remote areas beyond the reach of terrestrial networks, it is possible to expand the digitalization process into vast natural assets, contributing to our planet’s sustainable development goals. We are enthusiastic about the outcome of this collaboration with EchoStar Mobile and believe the enablement of satellite technology for IoT leveraging LoRa® and LR-FHSS is just the beginning of a groundbreaking and transformative journey.”

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Sateliot has achieved a 5G service connection after successfully integrating with KSAT Global Ground Station Network and the 5G virtualized core in AWS.

Sateliot, which operates a Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) 5G Internet of Things (IoT) satellite constellation acting as a seamless roaming extension of cellular networks, has achieved 5G service messaging connection via the Kongsberg Satellite Services (KSAT) commercial network, KSATlite, together with Amazon Web Services (AWS).

The collaboration between Sateliot and KSAT leverages the strengths of both entities to create a synergistic approach to 5G IoT satellite connectivity. Sateliot’s cutting-edge LEO satellite constellation seamlessly integrates with KSAT’s advanced ground network services, creating a robust system that ensures reliability, scalability, and global coverage.

Using AWS, Sateliot has built a fully virtualized cloud-native 5G core for Narrowband (NB)-IoT Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), providing flexible, low-cost, and hyper-scalable narrowband solutions supporting Sateliot’s end-to-end service.

Sateliot has marked a significant milestone by establishing its first-ever 5G service connection using KSAT’s Ground Station as a Service (GSaaS) network. This achievement was made possible by integrating Sateliot’s NB-IoT NTN Core Network deployed using AWS with the KSATlite multi-mission solution, which now functions as a 5G point-of-presence
(PoP).

In the context of Sateliot and KSAT’s collaboration, the PoP represents a crucial juncture in the seamless integration of ground and satellite services.

Together, it showcases the versatility and adaptability of Sateliot’s technology, demonstrating that Sateliot does not need to deploy its own dedicated Ground Gateways for Satellite IoT backhaul to provide an end-to-end standard 5G NB-IoT NTN service globally. This provides Sateliot with flexibility in locating its ground stations and super scalability.

The achievement validates further agreements between Sateliot and several stakeholders to improve millions of lives worldwide. During 2023, Sateliot closed agreements with hundreds of IoT solution providers to bring standard 5G satellite connectivity to their industries, revolutionizing and digitizing agriculture, livestock management, and maritime logistics, among others.

Sateliot also counts with an end-to-end service validation with Telefonica and the novel and patented Store and Forward technology. This is a particularly relevant feature for Sateliot’s delay-tolerant IoT services as it allows successful operations from day one, distinguishing the company from other satellite constellations reliant on a continuous link.

Marco Guadalupi, CTO at Sateliot, highlights: “The successful integration of Sateliot’s service into KSATlite solution brings unprecedented infrastructure optimization with fast and reliable data delivery. With KSAT, we reduce global service latency thanks to the strategic locations of their ground stations near the poles, thus allowing us to maximize daily ground contact passes.”

John Heskett, CTO at KSAT, adds:

“This is an exciting expansion of LEO satellite applications, providing a fully compliant 3GPP NB-IoT NTN service. KSAT is proud to have successfully integrated into Sateliot’s architecture, effectively serving as their feeder link gateways and their 5G-POPs. We look forward to Sateliot’s continued success and seeing this sector of the LEO satellite market grow!”

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Single eSIM, connectivity management and invoice, with flexible data plans to maximize device uptime and drive down satellite connectivity costs.

Today, emnify, the leader in cloud-native IoT connectivity solutions, announces the general availability of the industry’s first converged cellular and satellite IoT connectivity on a single emnify IoT eSIM.

SuperNetwork SatPlus is offered as part of the emnify SuperNetwork, the leading IoT cellular connectivity service providing multi-network coverage in over 180 countries.

The SuperNetwork SatPlus package combines emnify’s IoT-dedicated cellular access with Skylo’s non-terrestrial network (NTN) satellite service, enabling IoT device manufacturers, OEMs and application and solution providers to add a new level of service enabled by seamless, satellite connectivity failover for devices outside of, or disconnected from, cellular coverage.

SuperNetwork SatPlus opens up a whole new level of IoT connectivity availability for use cases in asset tracking, fleet management, building safety and security, agriculture, and more. IoT businesses can now differentiate their product and service experience and drive their top line revenues by offering a premium level of data connectivity service: ubiquitous coverage even in the most remote areas.

How SuperNetwork SatPlus works

emnify IoT SuperNetwork SatPlus is available in selected European countries and the USA and includes 10MB of cellular connectivity combined with options for 10, 30 or 60 satellite messages per month. With SatPlus, SuperNetwork customers have the security of ubiquitous, uninterrupted IoT connectivity, with seamless switching to satellite networks as devices leave cellular coverage regions. This converged offering is designed for customers that require high availability and a failover solution to be assured that critical application data, such as a high value asset’s position, will always be transmitted.

By enabling both cellular and satellite network access from a single eSIM, single management platform, and single radio module, SatPlus uplevels customer experience and drives down hardware and connectivity costs as it reduces operational overhead associated with adding satellite connectivity.

“Businesses around the world have had to contend with interruptions in their operations and services due to limited terrestrial network infrastructure and rollouts. Bringing together satellite and cellular coverage as a network of networks fills in the blank spaces on the terrestrial coverage map and provides an additional layer of connectivity backup. emnify is excited to be the first to commercially offer this enhanced level of truly global connectivity as part of the expanding emnify IoT SuperNetwork,” said Frank Stoecker, CEO and emnify Co-Founder.

“We are excited to accelerate the availability of the industry’s first converged NTN satellite and cellular connectivity offering through our partnership with emnify,” said Tarun Gupta, CPO and Co-Founder, Skylo.

“By delivering satellite and cellular connectivity in a single service, we’re helping IoT businesses increase the reliability and reduce the complexity of IoT connectivity, with a single provider, billing plan, and hardware configuration.”

emnify partners up with leading providers of purpose-built hardware

SatPlus is compatible with market-leading, affordable, converged hardware modules from Murata and IoT chipsets from Sony Semiconductor Israel (Sony), conforming with standard form factors and suitable for a variety of device sizes and designs.

“Designed for cellular IoT applications, the ALT1250 is engineered for devices which prioritize battery life, small size, and global coverage. The 4G/5G LPWA chipset supports 2G, CAT-M, NB-IoT and NB NTN connectivity options and is built to meet the needs of IoT device manufacturers looking to provide new levels of uptime and global coverage across business-critical use cases,” said Dima Feldman, VP Product Management and Marketing at Sony Semiconductor Israel. “Our collaboration with emnify, Murata and Skylo takes our vision forward, enabling IoT devices to connect everywhere.”

Module provider Murata is offering the Type 1SC radio module evaluation board including antenna and application development kit compatible with the SuperNetwork SatPlus service.

“The Type 1SC radio module combined with the Sony ALT1250 chipset and the emnify IoT eSIM provides a compact, low cost, CAT-M & NB-IoT module for a new breed of devices that support both cellular and satellite network protocols to provide global coverage for any type of device,” said Hirokazu Nakae, General Manager, Connectivity Module Product Department at Murata.

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Starnote will enable unparalleled affordability, accessibility, and reliability with no monthly usage fees or minimums.

Blues, a leader in IIoT technology enabling global connectivity solutions, today announced it is partnering with Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) service operator Skylo Technologies to launch Starnote—an add-on extension to its flagship product Notecard.

Starnote will enable satellite connectivity for Blues’ customers through a streamlined cost model and unparalleled developer accessibility.  

Starnote provides customers with a cost-efficient, reliable module that serves as a backup satellite connectivity option should a customer’s device go beyond the reach of cellular coverage, allowing for ongoing connectivity regardless of the device or location. The extension connects seamlessly to a customer’s already installed Notecard, providing automatic satellite fallback to devices whose primary connectivity is LTE Cat-M, LTE Cat-1, NB-IoT, GPRS, or even Wi-Fi.  

“For developers and enterprises everywhere, satellite connectivity is now a viable option. Starnote is breaking new ground by providing continuous satellite coverage with low data usage costs and no monthly usage fees or minimums. Historically, high pricing and high monthly minimums have kept satellite coverage out of consideration for low-cost, high-volume products. By partnering with Skylo, Blues will fundamentally change the landscape, setting the stage for remarkable growth,” said Ray Ozzie, Founder & CEO of Blues.

“Starnote is so affordable and easy to use that any developer can now develop fixed or mobile solutions for monitoring and remote control without worry about coverage in remote areas. By using the Notecard’s simple API, customer data will automatically transit on the best and least expensive technology available at that moment: Wi-Fi, cellular, or satellite.”  

Today’s global cellular networks are fundamentally designed for high availability ‘where the people are;’ infrastructure investments are made based on population density. This has resulted in challenges for businesses requiring cloud connectivity in remote areas, including smart agriculture, marine telematics, rail, global logistics and shipping, construction, oil and gas, and more. Until now, extremely high satellite connectivity costs have given enterprises no choice but to build and manage their own remote networks, backhauling their data using a broad mix of long-range radio technologies. 

Building upon the novel business model pioneered by Blues’ cellular Notecard product, Starnote is revolutionizing satellite IoT by making it accessible, affordable, and by eliminating monthly fees. With Starnote, customers won’t pay any satellite-related charges when a device is inactive or when it happens to be operating in an area with ample cellular coverage. This eliminates the need for businesses to invest in labor or systems to monitor when devices become active or go inactive, as has traditionally been required for cost-saving purposes. Additionally, each Starnote module is bundled with enough pre-paid data for a year or more, depending upon the application: just power it on, and it works. 

“Skylo is honored to partner with Blues to expand intuitive and affordable satellite connectivity,” said Tarun Gupta, Chief Product Officer and Co-Founder at Skylo Technologies.

“By incorporating satellite data into its regular IoT devices, Blues is able to bring an unprecedented amount of innovation into the IoT ecosystem.”

Blues was attracted to partner with Skylo Technologies because of its proven ability to enable IIoT devices to connect directly over existing satellite constellations having continuous and contiguous coverage. Skylo is among the few NTN connectivity providers to operate on a “connect and send anytime” basis using Geostationary Equatorial Orbit (GEO) constellations, in contrast to the “schedule-and-send when the satellite is overhead” approach employed by carriers utilizing sparse Low Earth Orbit (LEO) constellations. This “send anytime” approach allows for immediate time-sensitive alerts required when monitoring critical infrastructure or the environment. 

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• The Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA) has a vision of integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial network (NTN) services to deliver scalable, sustainable, and affordable connectivity to any device, anytime, anywhere
• Enables over 100 MHz of standards-based, interoperable L- and S-band spectrum for D2D across multiple MSS networks globally

Viasat, Inc., Terrestar Solutions, Ligado Networks, Omnispace and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company PJSC (Yahsat) today announced the Mobile Satellite Services Association (MSSA).

MSSA will bring significant scale and choice to promote and advance the emerging Direct-to-Device (D2D) ecosystem.

MSSA seeks to develop a global ecosystem utilizing over 100 MHz of L- and S-band spectrum already allocated and licensed for mobile satellite services (MSS), which is well-suited for integration into a broad range of mobile devices. The non-profit industry association intends to align with 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards to extend terrestrial mobile coverage for both Mobile Network Operator (MNO) and Over-the-Top (OTT) internet services.

MSS licensed spectrum advantages include: enabling existing space networks to immediately offer Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) services, an existing international regulatory framework, no interference with terrestrial networks, and more spectrum to advance 5G New Radio (5G-NR) services. MSS spectrum enables all MNOs to offer space/terrestrial integration in their entire service area without having to sacrifice terrestrial spectrum.

By aligning their expertise, along with other ecosystem partners, the founding members support integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) to deliver scalable, sustainable and affordable connectivity to any device, anytime, anywhere. Emerging D2D services can expand connectivity and enable competition across multiple large and diverse segments, including cellular, industrial, government, agriculture, automotive and others. The Association will foster a D2D ecosystem of solutions providers including terrestrial mobile and satellite operators, OEMs, infrastructure, chip vendors, and others.

“Integrating satellite connectivity into consumer mobile devices is a transformative opportunity for the satellite industry. As a coalition of leaders with a unified voice, MSSA will be a driving force in making this new marketplace a reality, while respecting the rights of nations to meaningfully engage and retain sovereignty in a rapidly growing space economy,” said Mark Dankberg, Chairman of MSSA, and Chairman and CEO of Viasat.

“The Association will help create opportunities to scale NTN systems via open, standards-based solutions for D2D and IoT. We believe this can be done while preserving critical MSS aviation and maritime safety services and by expanding the markets supporting diverse users through substantial improvements in speed, bandwidth, availability, interoperability and affordability.”

MSSA is focused on achieving the following fundamental goals:

• Unlocking interoperable architectures and standards for use in multi-orbit satellite systems, ground infrastructure and end user equipment
• Enhancing seamless global roaming between terrestrial and multi-orbit satellite networks through the development of recommended specifications
• Achieving scale through improved coordination and cooperation mechanisms among MSS operators to maximize the utility of over 100 MHz of already available and licensed global MSS spectrum in nations desiring advanced NTN services
• Maximizing scarce multi-orbit space and spectrum resources and employing sustainable network design and operation to enable affordable advanced NTN services
• Advocating for policies, laws and regulations, including those related to rational, efficient, safe and sustainable uses of spectrum and orbits, and where appropriate, objective and quantitative metrics regarding all objects in orbit around Earth
• Providing a neutral forum for coordination of 3GPP NTN and other international standards activities
• Supporting the integration of space networks into national telecommunications infrastructure via trusted local partners and within sovereign regulatory and national security frameworks
• Supporting mechanisms for individual nations to participate in the new space economy via open standards and architectures, and via the space networks supported by MSSA

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CSL, Critical IoT Connectivity experts, announce the launch of CSL Satellite.

CSL Satellite provides Critical Connectivity to remote or challenging environments, where mobile or fixed broadband options are unavailable or unreliable.

This resilient, encrypted Critical Connectivity is provided via Starlink’s constellation of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, along with CSL’s managed service which includes 24/7 support. As a result, CSL Satellite ensures better coverage and increased resilience for both land and maritime applications.

CSL’s low-cost coverage can be deployed with ease, allowing customers to get set up online as quickly as possible.

They offer three service plans:

• Permanent Fixed – Available for static site installs. This plan is ideal for premises in the retail and hospitality industry.
• Movable Fixed – Available for customers who require a terminal that will be moved between fixed addresses. This plan is ideal for use cases such as pop-up shops.
• Mobile – Available for mobile assets such as light and heavy-duty commercial vehicles, rail and maritime.

CSL’s Head of Product, Andy Bromley, commented:

“CSL has been an industry leader in providing Critical Connectivity to worldwide, leading brands for over 25 years. Adding satellite technology to its portfolio ensures they can deliver a truly global offering, both on land and for maritime applications.”

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China’s Geespace conducted its second successful satellite launch on 3rd February, sending eleven satellites into low Earth orbit, finish the deployment of the second orbital plane of the ambitious Geely Future Mobility Constellation.

Geely Future Mobility Constellation represents the world’s inaugural commercial initiative to integrate communication, navigation, and remote sensing within a single satellite network. The nine satellites of the first orbital plane was successfully deployed in June 2022. To date, Geespace has not only initiated mass production of satellites but also accomplished orbital plane level deployment, achieving constellation-level telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C). The company is actively engaged in satellite application testing.

With this advancement, Geespace joins the global league of enterprises like Iridium, Globalstar, Orbcomm, OneWeb, and SpaceX, showcasing its capability to independently construct and manage a commercial satellite constellation. It also stands as the sole entity in China to have successfully completed such extensive constellation orbital deployments. A remarkable feat achieved in 2023 by Geespace was the pioneering mass production of satellite communications for the automotive sector – a world first.

By 2025, Geespace aims to establish global real-time data communication services following the full deployment of 72 satellites in the constellation’s initial phase. The second phase will expand the network to 168 satellites, delivering global centimeter-level high-precision positioning services. This expansion is set to provide highly reliable and cost-effective satellite services to various sectors, including personal mobility with a focus on autopolit, intelligent connected vehicles, consumer electronics, and beyond. Additionally, the satellites come equipped with AI remote sensing functions, providing 1- 5 meter high-resolution remote sensing imaging. This technology is poised to revolutionize ecological environment monitoring and provide versatile imaging solutions across diverse industries.

The Geely Future Mobility Constellation offers global satellite IoT service capabilities, comparable to Iridium Next satellites. From the initial design of the Constellation, the provision of Direct-to-Cell service was a key consideration, mirroring functionality recently introduced by Starlink’s V2 mini-satellites. Consequently, the Constellation delivers efficient satellite messaging and data transmission. Geespace, focused on personal mobility, specializes in providing satellite data services to automotive and consumer electronics sectors.

By integrating communication, navigation, and remote sensing, Geespace delivers various satellite data products and services. They are designed to substantially support the “Belt and Road” initiative, fostering international cooperation. This approach will accelerate the commercialization, large-scale implementation, and global expansion of satellite applications.

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Edge processing is one of the biggest trends in IoT – and for a reason. Processing data close to where it’s generated enables greater speed and volume, while reducing transmission loads. It reduces network latency, boosts scalability and enhances security. It creates the opportunity for AI at the edge to take immediate action – such as automatically preventing a pipeline blowout or keeping a failing generator or pump from tearing itself apart.

Today, IoT applications are making only limited use of edge computing. In most cases, the device at the edge takes whatever data the sensors are sending it and pumps it out over the network. That’s a shame – especially when satellite is the optimal connectivity solution, as it so often is for remote or mobile applications. Wasting satellite bandwidth is never a winning proposition. When a sensor is paired with a satellite-enabled device, it enables smart IoT data management: decision-making at the edge to determine what data is relevant data to send over the network.

Edge data management opens and expands use cases for satellite IoT now and in the future

Four essentials for getting edge processing right

There are four essentials to getting edge processing right in a satellite IoT application: edge technology, AI, the right satellite connectivity and the cloud.

Edge Technology

Edge processing technology needs to strike a balance between two different requirements: providing enough processing power for applications and being inexpensive enough for mass deployment. The solution comes down to smart engineering of devices, from storage and power to sensor connectivity. Many satellite-based and multimode IoT devices are designed to monitor and manage unpowered assets far from electric lines. They need low power consumption, long-life batteries and, in some cases, solar power – and they can benefit from the low cost of today’s multi-megabit flash storage and BLE Low Power technology.

AI at the Edge and Core

In addition to physical design, software engineering can make a substantial difference. On the edge devices, it can put a stop to the “pump it out over the network” approach and, instead, prioritize data and package it efficiently for transmission, saving money on the recurring costs of transmission. The back end of the system is equally important. An efficient, easy-to-use management system for devices, users and business rules keeps the network from streaming unnecessary data and supporting inactive devices and users.

Satellite Connectivity

Satellite has a reputation for being costly, unreliable and, like the famed Starlink network, best used for multi-megabit service. None of that needs to be true. Networks designed for IoT and other small-data applications transmit short, efficient bursts of information, using satellites in low Earth orbit that cover just about any location with a view of the sky. Messages can be sent on a schedule and on AI decision-making at the edge that suits the application.

Cloud

IoT networks, especially serving remote locations, tend to be dynamic, with requirements changing as markets and conditions evolve. Cloud-based applications scale up or down rapidly for applications providing back-end configuration, user and device management, and data translation and analytics.

IoT on the Move

You can see these four essentials at work in the biggest single market vertical for IoT: transportation and logistics.

On any given day, more than 16 million trucks are on the road in North America, including nearly 4 million tractor-trailer big rigs that spend long periods beyond the reach of cellular. There is an average of 2 to 3 unpowered trailers for every one of those big rigs. So, trucking companies spend too much time simply locating trailers in their yard, on the road or at customer locations so they can be matched to trucks. Lack of good information on location causes them to waste money buying or leasing trailers to ensure on-time deliveries.

A low-cost, IoT transmitter on each trailer transforms these businesses. It periodically transmits a GPS location over satellite, along with any sensor data the trucking company wants. Solar-powered, it delivers years of use with little maintenance and has enough processing power to monitor and report on battery level, confirm that it remains attached, and manage data from sensors reporting, for example, whether the trailer door is open or closed. The data transmitted over satellite feeds a cloud-based dashboard that maps the location of each trailer and provides access to sensor data. For one company managing hundreds of trailers, real-time analysis of the GPS coordinates alone showed the company that it did not need 100 trailers it was renting or a new order for 40 more. Total savings exceeded $2 million in the first year.

Making the case for edge processing in satellite IoT comes down to value. It can deliver better latency, greater scalability, reduced transmission costs – but the real value is in the business or operational impact it has for companies on the receiving end of the data. This can far outweigh the cost of the added capability – by as much as the car in your driveway is outweighed by a big rig on the road.

The post Don’t Discount the Edge’s Valuable Role in Satellite IoT appeared first on IoT Business News.

The company plans to upload NB-IoT NTN standards into its operational LEO constellation.

Iridium Communications Inc., today announced Project Stardust, the evolution of its direct-to-device (D2D) strategy with 3GPP 5G standards-based Narrowband-Internet of Things (NB-IoT) Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) service development.

As a new standards-based solution, it will be deployed on Iridium’s existing satellite network giving the company a unique ability to offer both high-quality proprietary and standardized D2D and IoT services to its customers.

The early stages of programming Iridium’s low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites offers a special opportunity to smartphone companies, OEMs, chipmakers, mobile network operators (MNO) and related IoT developers to have their requirements woven into the fabric of the Iridium® network. Iridium is already collaborating directly with several of these companies.

“This is an exciting moment for Iridium and is a testament to the flexibility and capability built into our satellite constellation,” said Iridium CEO Matt Desch.

“The industry is moving quickly towards a more standards-based approach, and after surveying the field, we found that we’re the best positioned to lead the way using our own network, particularly given our true global coverage.”

Iridium is designing its initial NB-IoT offering to support 5G NTN messaging and SOS capabilities for smartphones, tablets, cars, and related consumer applications. Adopting the service will enable device manufacturers to add a satellite connection to standardized devices, take advantage of existing, globally allocated and coordinated Iridium spectrum, and provide a superior low-latency LEO user experience. The Iridium network supports approximately 1,300 SOS and emergency (911 or equivalent) incidents per year, around the world and has readily available systems, processes, and partners to implement this capability for new devices.

Iridium understands the market need for its customers to develop and certify products quickly. Applying our established onboarding processes, chipmakers and NB-IoT developers can join Iridium’s ecosystem of about 500 partners, and choose a proprietary, standards-based, or dual-solution integration approach for added network redundancy. MNOs will have the opportunity to be a one-stop shop for ubiquitous coverage and off-grid use cases, with unmatched industry reliability. Iridium partners are supported by a 24/7 customer support, back office, billing, and provisioning system, all ready to support the new service upon launch.

The Iridium satellite constellation’s fully crosslinked, LEO architecture and global L-band spectrum provides a competitive service advantage versus other LEO and geostationary satellite networks. Certified to provide safety of life services by international regulatory bodies, the Iridium network has become the gold standard of reliability and continues to be the only network that provides connectivity everywhere on Earth. Operating in LEO, the Iridium constellation does not suffer from the same line-of-sight limitations, significant power requirements or outages that can affect entire regions from a single satellite as faced by geostationary systems.

The recognized leader in satellite IoT and personal communications, Iridium has more than two decades of experience and an unmatched partner ecosystem supporting more than 2.2 million users around the world. As of the third quarter of 2023, Iridium subscribers have grown at a 15% CAGR over the last five years, and the company serves approximately 1.7 million IoT customers today, including about 900,000 personal trackers and satellite messengers for consumer, enterprise, and government applications. Known for its reliability, coverage, and low power requirements, the Iridium network is an ideal fit for NB-IoT NTN service.

The company is currently working with several D2D and IoT-focused companies to understand and incorporate their use cases, requirements, and end-user needs into its planned service. The company anticipates testing to begin in 2025, with service in 2026.

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CES – Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, is pleased to announce the successful certification of Quectel’s NTN-enabled module, the CC660D-LS, for use on the network by Skylo, the leading non-terrestrial network (NTN) service provider.

The module is the first to be certified by Skylo for use on its network and enables seamless and reliable IoT-NTN connectivity for any standard device that incorporates the module and has a view of the sky.

Quectel has developed the CC660D-LS module specifically to provide dependable and efficient, two-way, satellite communication capabilities. With the module’s certification on the Skylo network, businesses and organizations can harness the power of Skylo’s ubiquitous satellite connectivity to enable IoT applications in remote and challenging environments, ensuring that data is transmitted securely and reliably.

The CC660D-LS module provides a range of flexible connectivity options, encompassing L-band, S-band, and Band 23 connections. Notably, this module is equipped to support 3GPP Release 17 IoT non-terrestrial network (IoT-NTN) connections, reflecting its advanced capabilities. Prioritizing reliable connectivity, the CC660D-LS module excels in facilitating two-way communication. Furthermore, the module extends its support to both IP and Non-IP service networks. This dual capability ensures not only enhanced connectivity but also heightened service availability. The CC660D-LS module stands as a comprehensive solution for robust and versatile connectivity needs.

“We are delighted that Skylo has certified our NTN Satellite Communication Module for its network,” said Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions. “This certification reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality satellite communication solutions to our customers worldwide. By collaborating with Skylo, we enable businesses to unlock new opportunities and achieve their IoT goals, regardless of where they are located.”

The Skylo certification process involved rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure that the CC660D-LS module meets stringent quality and performance standards, including 3GPP Release-17 standards and Skylo’s Standards Plus qualifications. Skylo’s network is designed to provide global coverage, ensuring that IoT devices equipped with Quectel’s module can stay connected in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure.

“We are excited to welcome Quectel’s CC660D-LS module to our ecosystem of certified devices,” said Dr Andrew Nuttall, CTO and Co-Founder of Skylo. “This certification is a testament to our commitment to providing the most reliable and expansive satellite based IoT connectivity. By partnering with industry leaders like Quectel, we empower device manufacturers of all types to expand their IoT applications, add additional review streams, and deliver a superior customer experience that requires no change in user behavior.”

Quectel’s CC660D-LS module is suitable for a wide range of applications, including asset tracking, fleet management, agriculture, maritime, and more. The module’s compact design and low-power consumption make it an ideal choice for battery-powered IoT devices that require long-term, uninterrupted connectivity.

Quectel’s IoT modules are developed with security at the core. From product architecture to firmware/software development, Quectel incorporates leading industry practices and standards, mitigating potential vulnerabilities with third party independent test houses and have incorporated security practices like generating SBOMs and VEX files as well as performing firmware binary analysis into the entire software development lifecycle.

IoT developers now can streamline their development process by combining Quectel modules with Quectel’s antennas and pre-certification services, effectively reducing both costs and time-to-market for their IoT devices. For the CC660D-LS satellite module, Quectel offers the YECN028AA and YFCA011AA antennas, providing developers with versatile options to enhance connectivity and expedite the deployment of their innovative solutions.

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• Telit Cinterion’s new end-to-end, turnkey IoT solution will feature 3GPP Release-17 NB-IoT-over-NTN compliant modules with hybrid cellular and satellite connectivity services
• New partnership will provide transportation, logistics, agriculture, mining and other verticals with seamless, ubiquitous connectivity based on floLIVE’s global cellular infrastructure, which acts as the backbone to worldwide connectivity and is complemented by Skylo’s satellite service — even in remote areas

Telit Cinterion, an end-to-end IoT solutions enabler, today announced a solution featuring cellular and satellite connectivity services on its ME910G1 and ME310G1 modules.

In partnership with floLIVE and Skylo Technologies, the new solution ensures that mobile assets — shipping containers, agricultural equipment, trucks, and other high-value assets — are continually trackable and monitored anywhere on earth, from cities and rural highways to deserts and oceans.

The new Telit Cinterion solution is ideal for enterprises in transportation, logistics, construction, mining, agriculture and other verticals whose mission- and business-critical applications require guaranteed global connectivity with their mobile assets. The solution will provide OEMs, system integrators, and enterprises with a turnkey, end-to-end suite featuring:

• Telit Cinterion cellular LPWA module that is fully compliant with the new 3GPP R17 NB-IoT over non-terrestrial network (NTN) standard. This will enable satellite data communication using the NB-IoT protocol — without any special hardware changes required for the integration of the cellular module in the customer application.
• Telit Cinterion cellular and satellite data service plans, as well as a connectivity management portal. This drastically simplifies access to global connectivity with unique, centralized support and an advanced monitoring platform for full control of device fleets.
• Satellite connectivity services from Skylo — a direct-to-device Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) operator focused on connecting anything, anywhere — in conjunction with floLIVE — the creator and owner of the world’s first and largest hyperlocal global network and a leading IoT connectivity enabler.

The Telit Cinterion ME910G1 module is currently under certification and approval by Skylo, making it one of the first modules that will be commercially available for customers globally. The solution will debut in Europe and North America following the launch of the floLIVE-Skylo service in 2024.

“The ability to leverage local cellular connectivity across the globe in tandem with satellite connectivity truly opens the globe to IoT and digital transformation,” said Chen Porat, floLIVE SVP of Sales, APAC and Africa. “floLIVE offers MNOs and IoT MVNOs with a global hyperlocal infrastructure that becomes the backbone to anywhere, ‘always-on’ connectivity. This expansion into the NTN domain signifies our dedication to supporting our partners through continuous growth in carrier relations, global presence, and service offerings.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Telit Cinterion, a recognized leader in the IoT industry. This collaboration will enable us to leverage Telit Cinterion’s expertise in cellular connectivity to expand the reach and capabilities of standards-based NB-IoT-over-NTN with the Skylo solutions,” said Sriram Subramanian, Director of Product Management at Skylo. “Together, we will empower businesses across industries to unlock the true potential of connected devices and drive digital transformation on a global scale.”

“Transportation companies, logistics providers and mine operators are just three examples of enterprises that need to monitor their high-value mobile assets anywhere and everywhere on earth,” said Manish Watwani, Chief Marketing and Product Officer, Telit Cinterion.

“Our strategic partnership with Skylo and floLIVE meets that need by providing the world’s first turnkey package of hardware and seamless, ubiquitous, global connectivity that leverages the best of cellular and satellite — all based on the new 3GPP R17 NB-IoT over NTN standard.”

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Quectel Wireless Solutions, a global IoT solutions provider, is pleased to announce a major milestone for its satellite communication module, CC200A-LB, which has recently secured global certifications from leading authorities, including CE, FCC, IC, and RCM.

This confirms CC200A-LB’s compliance with satellite network standards across Europe, North America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

With a focus on cost-effectiveness and ultra-low latency, the CC200A-LB module delivers a reliable and uninterrupted global network connection. This makes it an ideal solution for a wide range of applications, including maritime, transportation, heavy equipment, agriculture, mining, oil and gas monitoring as well as other scenarios where cellular networks may be limited.

Norbert Muhrer, President and CSO, Quectel Wireless Solutions, said:

“We are thrilled to see the global approval of our satellite communication module. Its capability in delivering uninterrupted network coverage ensures continuous and cost-effective communication for managing remote and mobile assets anytime, anywhere.”

The CC200A-LB incorporates cutting-edge satellite IoT connectivity offered by ORBCOMM, utilizing the L-band of the Inmarsat GEO constellation. It features two-way communication, low latency, and global coverage. When paired with cellular modules, it enables distinctive dual-mode IoT applications, providing unparalleled reliability, redundancy and ubiquitous coverage. In scenarios with inadequate or disrupted cellular network coverage, IoT devices can seamlessly sustain communication through satellite connections.

The CC200A-LB is designed with a streamlined LCC+LGA package, measuring 37mm × 38mm × 3.35mm. Equipped with multi-constellation GNSS positioning, the module can identify the device’s location quickly and precisely. Its user-friendly AT command set facilitates effortless configuration and management.

The module can be purchased in isolation or with the appropriate Quectel antenna to help accelerate the time-to-market of customer devices.

Apart from the CC200A-LB, Quectel has diversified its portfolio by introducing a range of satellite communication modules. Among them, the CC660D-LS is compliant with 3GPP NTN R17 standards and features two-way communication, support for multiple frequency bands, low latency as well as low power consumption. The BG95-S5 and BG770A-SN modules are designed to support both satellite and cellular networks, providing ubiquitous coverage for IoT applications.

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Highlights:

• Leading edge solutions built around Globalstar IoT satellite technology are helping conservationists in Africa to monitor and protect near-extinct rhinoceros from poachers
• Low-cost ST100 chipset is at the heart of wildlife tracking platform provided by specialist Globalstar Value Added Reseller Wintec Solutions
• Satellite technology means tracking of free-roaming animals is ubiquitous and transmissions uninterrupted, even when beyond GSM mobile networks’ reach

Globalstar Europe Satellite Services Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Globalstar, Inc., the next-generation international telecommunications infrastructure and technology provider, announced today that its IoT (internet of things) satellite technology is being used to protect multiple endangered species of wildlife in Africa.

Leading-edge satellite-enabled tracking devices incorporating Globalstar’s small and lightweight ST100 chipset are being used to monitor rhinoceros, part of a widespread concerted effort to protect these nearly-extinct wild animals from illegal poachers.

This is the most recent project carried out by Globalstar Value Added Reseller, Johannesburg-based Wintec Solutions, a specialist technology and solutions provider with extensive experience in animal tracking for wildlife conservation.

Rhinoceros are the subject of widespread illegal killing by poachers across Africa. Wintec Solutions deployed GSatSolar, the latest addition to Globalstar’s IoT satellite tracking solutions portfolio. GSatSolar is an innovative Sun-powered tracking device built around Globalstar’s economical ST100 satellite IoT transmitter. Low-cost and simple to integrate, GSatSolar is a small and rugged satellite IoT tracker ideal for wildlife monitoring. Rhinos are fitted with the device via ear tagging or collar. Other novel ways of deploying the devices are also being explored. The device is also suitable for livestock tracking.

Nature reserves in Africa are expansive, spanning as many as 20,000 hectares in remote bush regions. Their perimeter fencing is often breached by criminals and poachers attempting to gain access to, and kill, the animals within. Such reserves, which are home to as many as 200 free-ranging rhinos, typically are established in locations where GSM mobile signal does not exist. Only satellite communications can provide the always-on connectivity to enable uninterrupted monitoring of the animals.

Significant advantages of GSatSolar are its small size and light weight, so as not to irritate the animal, as well as its robust structure. Furthermore, its low cost makes the solution easily scalable for tracking large herds of wildlife and farm stock. “Its physical attributes make GSatSolar a game changer, and transform the possibilities for wildlife conservation and livestock management,” says Rene Winter, Director of Wintec Solutions.

Globalstar-enabled solutions are at the forefront of today’s conservation activities in Africa; Wintec Solutions is additionally playing a role in the preservation of other African species. Researchers at Giraffe Conservation Foundation are using the system to monitor giraffe migration, and for keeping safeguarding tabs on animals which have been reintroduced into the wild. “We are currently trialling GSatSolar ear tags on giraffe in Namibia. The first units were deployed in June this year and, while field trials are still ongoing, the data received so far are very promising. We’re looking forward to deploying more units in the future and testing them in different countries,” said Dr Courtney Marneweck, Science Data Coordinator at Giraffe Conservation Foundation.

Wintec Solutions is also deploying satellite technology and Globalstar-enabled animal tags in collaboration with veterinary authorities and research students for wild buffalo protection activities in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. Buffalo migration is being monitored so conservationists and government authorities can understand and mitigate the potential spread of Bovine Tuberculosis. In another project, the application of Globalstar-enabled trackers is being tested on pangolins, yet another severely endangered species.

The tracking platform UI developed Wintec Solutions includes an informative mapping portal that tracks the animals’ individual and group movements. Monitoring the rhino, or other wildlife, also informs as to grazing habits, locations of the best nutrition, seasonal breeding habits, as well as the animals’ general health and well-being.

Winter said:

“Our wildlife preservation activities take place well beyond the reach of GSM mobile; Globalstar’s satellite network, with its ubiquitous reach and reliability, is a fundamental enabler in the operations being carried out to protect endangered species.”

“Globalstar created the ST100 transmitter to meet the widespread need for easy-to-integrate, low-cost and lightweight monitoring devices that leverage satellite technology and the Internet of Things,” commented Mark O’Connell, General Manager at Globalstar EMEA & APAC. “We are absolutely delighted that solutions developed through the inventiveness and commitment of our partner Wintec Solutions are now playing such a pivotal role in the vital wildlife conservation activities today taking place across Africa,” he added.

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Low-cost, solar-powered satellite tracker designed for remote IoT operations and off-grid tracking of assets.

Globalstar, Inc., the next-generation international telecommunications infrastructure and technology provider, today announced that it has added GSatSolar to its portfolio of industrial IoT asset tracking solutions.

Offered in partnership with Global Satellite Engineering (GSE), the small, rugged, low-cost tracking device enables VARs and customers to maximize the value of their tracking software tools by increasing the number of trackable assets in near-real time.

Ideal for remote IoT operations, the satellite powered device allows for a greater number of trackable assets, providing more reliable usable data in the field, improving efficiency, and allowing for true remote IoT autonomous data collection.

“GSatSolar is a low-cost option to monitor assets remotely on the Globalstar LEO network and delivers a plethora of verified IoT data across IoT applications,” said Jake Rembert, vice president of sales at Globalstar.

“The GSatSolar is a versatile solution that expands our satellite tracking capabilities. As with all our IoT asset tracking solutions, it features low power, long life and is equipped to perform.”

GSatSolar is highly durable, heat and cold resistant, and minimally invasive regarding antenna performance. Its compact size makes it viable with several flexible mounting options to fit the needs across various enterprise industrial applications. With its solar panel and internal battery, a standard unit reports for years assuming an environment with regular sun exposure.

Data collection capabilities include location, accelerometer, and Bluetooth sensor options, with the option of having data forwarded either to Globalstar’s SPOT My Globalstar data management and mapping platform — with features such as live and historical tracking on demand, alerts, geofences and shared views—or directly to a VAR’s back office or customer endpoint.

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• Expanded Reach: OQ Technology’s NB-IoT services extend o2 Telefónica’s global reach to over 130 counties
• Boosting Connectivity: Aiming to connect in the range of seven (7) digits worth of SIMs to the OQ network by 2030, showcasing potential for massive scale deployment
• Cutting-Edge Infrastructure: Leveraging OQ’s 3GPP LEO constellation, O2 Telefónica enables 5G IoT connectivity for NB-IoT standards-compliant devices

OQ Technology, the first and fastest growing 5G IoT satellite operator, proudly announces the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with o2 Telefónica, ushering in a new era of global IoT Satellite connectivity.

Commencing in Q2 2024, o2 Telefónica will roll out global 5G roaming, enabling Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) solutions deployment worldwide. This collaboration empowers businesses with reliable IoT services, even in previously inaccessible areas.

OQ Technology’s satellite network integrates seamlessly with Telefónica IPX Cloud and Kite, o2 Telefónica’s award-winning IoT connectivity management platform, offering business customers real-time SIM card monitoring and control globally.

In collaboration with OQ Technology, o2 Telefónica offers a hybrid mobile satellite connectivity service, providing global IoT network coverage. The service data is transmitted securely to customers, requiring only a Service-Level Agreement with o2 Telefónica.

Leadership Perspectives:

Omar Qaise, Founder & CEO of OQ Technology: Expresses delight at the Telefónica partnership, marking a historic milestone and enabling o2 Telefónica users to access 5G IoT roaming services globally.

Nikolaos Kalivianakis, Director of Business Solutions at o2 Telefónica: Highlights the collaboration’s potential to enhance efficiency and productivity through OQ Technology’s global coverage and innovative satellite-based IoT connectivity.

New Business Opportunities:

Satellite connectivity unlocks IoT applications in areas where terrestrial networks face limitations. This includes connecting stationary IoT devices like agriculture sensors in remote areas and facilitating IoT applications across the world’s oceans.

New Service – IoT Data Ready:

In early 2024, Telefónica’s Kite platform introduces “IoT Data Ready,” simplifying NB-IoT data processing and acting as a bridge to traditional IT systems.

The post OQ Technology and o2 Telefónica Join Forces for Global 5G IoT Connectivity appeared first on IoT Business News.

“SpaceX’s move towards standards-based IoT solutions in the direct-to-device market reflects the industry’s shifting landscape from proprietary solutions to standardisation.”

SpaceX made its first-ever acquisition in August 2021 when it purchased Swarm Technologies, a start-up known for its early adoption of proprietary ultra-narrowband satellite IoT solutions; a move that signalled SpaceX’s intention to expand its capabilities and diversify its offerings to cater to a broader range of customers. However, Swarm’s announcement in July 2023 that it would cease selling new devices has raised eyebrows. Swarm’s decision appears to be directly linked to its parent company’s intention to shift the focus of its IoT strategy towards the direct-to-device/cell (D2D/C) market.

Why is this worth noting? In other verticals – specifically broadband access, enterprise, mobility, and government – that are using the Starlink offering, SpaceX is offering proprietary solutions, which has enabled it to scale rapidly. However, it would appear that integrating with telcos in the IoT market requires a different approach for achieving scale and success.

The move is not surprising to NSR, as this shift in direction towards standards-based solutions from proprietary ones aligns with the trend that was outlined in our recently released report, M2M and IoT via satellite, 14th edition report, that the number of in-service IoT units using 5G and standard-based protocols (for example, LoRa) is expected to grow rapidly in the next 10 years, reaching 39.3 million by 2032, out of a total market of 57.7 million devices (Figure 1).

The satellite direct-to-device ecosystem is taking shape … gradually

3GPP Release 17’s inclusion of non-terrestrial networks opens the door for direct-to-cell development, allowing IoT devices to communicate with satellite networks directly. Chipset manufacturers are working to integrate standards; for example, Mediatek has demonstrated its 3GPP NTN technology, and Qualcomm has launched new 3GPP modems. In March 2023, the FCC unveiled a proposed satellite direct-to-device regulatory framework, which will facilitate partnerships and collaboration between satellite operators and telecoms operators (telcos), as well as establish ground rules for market players. All these advances will promote the development and growth of the D2D ecosystem.

To seize the opportunities presented by this shift towards standardization, SpaceX has been forming partnerships with terrestrial network operators worldwide. Some recent examples include its partnership with T-Mobile to broaden coverage in the USA, and Optus for D2C coverage across Australia. These future integrations have primarily been marketed as opportunities for consumers to request emergency assistance and send text messages back and forth, but such partnerships are also ideal for narrowband IoT applications; these applications have a clear short-term value proposition for enterprises that crave 100% visibility on mobile assets.

One exciting prospect that could arise from SpaceX’s D2C vision is its potential to connect a wide array of devices and allow roaming to satellite networks, especially those that are mobile, moving in and out of terrestrial network coverage, like passenger vehicles. Elon Musk is known for his ambitious goals and SpaceX’s D2D initiatives could pave the way for connecting Tesla cars. Musk has previously noted that Tesla vehicles will not be line-fit to connect to the Starlink service, this was in the context of high-speed flat panel antenna connectivity – a much more expensive service to integrate into vehicles. Musk has since commented that SpaceX’s narrowband D2D initiative is much more suited to Tesla vehicles.

However, it is important to note that these partnerships will take time to actually implement. Bigger satellites are needed for this service, which in turn will need to be delivered by SpaceX’s larger Starship launch vehicle – the same one that was destroyed after a failed test flight in April this year. Consequently, SpaceX has not yet set a date for the satellite-to-cell service to be trialled, but it is likely to occur some time in 2024. In the meantime, other proprietary services are already moving in.

Proprietary solutions still have their place in the IoT ecosystem

From a technical perspective, there is no definitive conclusion as to which protocol strategy is better – using proprietary systems, 3GPP standards, or other standards-based systems such as LoRa. All have their advantages and disadvantages.

Proprietary protocols, whether deployed on small satellite constellations, or using leased mobile satellite service (MSS) capacity, do provide some advantages over standards-based protocols according to operators, which are mainly related to efficiencies and costs. Satellites can use highly efficient proprietary waveforms to handle billions of sensors on a single footprint, and therefore offer better economies of scale than current 3GPP standards.

This is in part due to the overhead in satellite-to-cellular and cellular-to-satellite hand-off on 5G 3GPP systems, which needs to be considered carefully, otherwise the data overhead could overwhelm networks. While 3GPP Release 17 improves this significantly, more needs to be done to make this a more seamless process. Some satellite operators are therefore already going beyond Release 17 in order to improve efficiency, and it is likely that such improvements will be incorporated into future releases.

For end users, deploying proprietary systems makes most sense when there is no terrestrial connectivity available (or it is just not needed), because the greater spectrum efficiency can potentially reduce the price down to single-digit dollars per year in some use cases.

For standards-based IoT solutions though, operators will need to strike a balance between backward compatibility and performance and regulatory certainty. Collaborative network planning and integration are also essential to ensure seamless integration of networks. If stakeholders come together and co-operate in ecosystems based on standards, this could maximise synergies between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. If this occurs, and more roaming agreements come into place, a high-growth scenario for the broader satellite IoT market could occur, resulting in almost 140 million in-service units in 2032 (Figure 2).

Other uncertainties will challenge business models including the revenue split between satellite operators, MNOs, IoT service providers, and other value-chain members. Any regulations and policies will also introduce elements of uncertainty.

Bottom line

SpaceX’s move towards standards-based IoT solutions in the direct-to-device market reflects the industry’s shifting landscape from proprietary solutions to standardization. This strategic move should position SpaceX to take advantage of the rapidly growing direct-to-device IoT market of the future while aligning with industry standards and trends. SpaceX should be well-positioned to play a pivotal role in the direct-to-device market by forming partnerships, leveraging standards and capitalizing on decreasing device prices.

Although a lot of uncertainties remain in the D2D market, going by the open standards route would simplify telco integration and increase market penetration. At the moment, proprietary solutions have the edge; but 5G standards will begin to outpace growth and market penetration by 2028 and this will continue in the long term. This market development is still 4 years away, but SpaceX is making a bet today that open standards will win over proprietary systems.

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