U.S. telecom Verizon has signed an agreement with non-terrestrial network (NTN) communications vendor Skylo to launch a commercial direct-to-device messaging service for Verizon users to stay connected anywhere.
The network will be available on some Verizon smartphones this fall, giving users access to emergency messaging and location sharing even when a terrestrial cellular network is unavailable. In 2025, Verizon said it will offer the ability to text anywhere via satellite for customers on select smartphones.
Skylo, which recently certified Sony Semiconductors’ dual cellular and SATCOM chipset to be used for its internet of things (IoT) and global communications solutions, uses a dedicated mobile satellite spectrum for connectivity that avoids terrestrial signals and provides coverage in rural or ruggedized areas.
Verizon claims it is the first telecom to commercially launch supplemental smartphone connectivity on Skylo’s NTN and to launch a commercial direct-to-satellite service offering.
Satellite IoT roaming
Skylo and Verizon have demonstrated how a Verizon-enabled IoT device can roam onto a satellite network when out of range of a terrestrial cellular network. This will help provide enhanced geographic coverage for IoT devices, Verizon said.
The companies said satellite IoT roaming is critical for IoT and potentially other applications in sectors like:
- Transportation
- Agriculture
- Maritime
- Environmental monitoring
- Asset tracking
Verizon offered an example of how an agriculture-focused satellite IoT service could be used to monitor cattle movements, crops, soil quality and meteorological conditions in remote areas where terrestrial cellular is typically not available or needed.
Why it matters
SATCOM is quickly becoming an emerging technology for use in cellular phones. The goal is to provide an alternative service in case a user travels beyond the range of a cellular tower or repeater into a remote or rural area. Satellite communications will allow users to connect to messaging and location services. Eventually, this technology could be used for phone calls and internet data use.
Not surprisingly, telecoms are actively forming agreements to get their foot in the door for the technology as well as developing new research projects to expand the role that SATCOM may play in the future.
The benefits of SATCOM cellular is handy to users traveling into the wilderness or traveling across country, but it could also bring high-speed internet and cellular connectivity to rural areas that do not currently have access to these technologies due to location.
The idea is that beyond providing users with normal cellular service, SATCOM would give additional services and allow for “always available” messaging no matter where someone travels.
