While current cellular network infrastructure covers most populated areas, its reach ends where terrestrial transmitters are absent – in oceans, deserts, or remote mountain ranges. The integration of cellular and satellite networks, previously limited to critical military or scientific purposes due to high cost and complexity, is now becoming accessible for commercial use in the Internet of Things (IoT) thanks to technological advancements.
A crucial impetus for this shift is the development of constellations in low Earth orbit (LEO). These satellites are smaller, cheaper to launch, and offer significantly lower latency due to their closer proximity to the surface. Simultaneously, antennas have been miniaturized, and can now be integrated directly into standard IoT devices without the need for additional infrastructure. This opens up new avenues for use, such as tracking maritime containers, monitoring wind farms and oil pipelines, or NG eCall emergency call systems.
Standardization is key to widespread adoption. In mid-2024, the 3GPP Release 18 standard was completed, harmonizing specifications for non-terrestrial networks (NTN). In practice, this allows devices to seamlessly switch between terrestrial and satellite networks based on signal availability. Satellite technology here does not function as a replacement, but as a complement, ensuring connectivity where mobile signal fails or is non-existent.
“The vision is a future where every device, asset and sensor – regardless of where it’s deployed – remains connected,” states representatives from Vodafone IoT division.
Vodafone IoT, in response to this trend, is integrating satellite connectivity directly into its existing IoT management platform. This will allow businesses to leverage global coverage using a single Global SIM card, without having to modify their hardware or learn to operate new systems. To deliver this service, the operator has partnered with Iridium Communications, utilizing its LEO satellite network, and Skylo Technologies, which specializes in narrowband satellite services (NB-IoT).
Although regulatory barriers still persist in some regions, legislators are gradually recognizing the integration of these networks as a fundamental moment for global communication. The combination of both technologies promises more efficient business operations, increased security, and reliable data transmission from the most remote places on the planet.