Can satellite connectivity help mobile IoT reach for the stars?

Satellite IoT connectivity and applications have been around for some time, but adoption has been hampered by high pricing and technical complexities. However, over the last few years, 3GPP 5G standards have included compatibility for non-terrestrial networks (NTNs). This was specified in Release 17 and will be further optimised in subsequent releases. Several commercial solutions can now integrate mobile IoT with satellite network services.

Providing IoT connectivity wherever needed by end users is a core focus of partnerships between mobile and satellite operators, but further opportunities could be unlocked. Meanwhile, makers of devices and modules have a significant role to play in specification planning as part of their product roadmaps.