Verizon, the largest wireless network provider in the U.S., has joined forces with Skylo, a leader in non-terrestrial network (NTN) communications, to introduce a commercial direct-to-device messaging service for its customers, ensuring connectivity in even the most remote locations.
Starting this fall, users of select smartphones will be able to send emergency messages and share their location when no terrestrial cellular network is available. By next year, Verizon plans to expand the service, offering text messaging via satellite for users with compatible devices.
“Verizon has been driving innovation in the use of supplemental satellite capabilities for years using satellite connections for cell tower rapid deployments, emergency response and temporary options,” said Srini Kalapala, senior vice president for Verizon. “We are encouraged by the progress being made in satellite-to-device communications for consumers and are equally excited to be driving technical innovation trials in the space of satellite IoT.”
Skylo’s solution relies on dedicated, licensed mobile satellite spectrum, which prevents interference with terrestrial networks and ensures continuous coverage in rural and challenging terrains where building traditional networks isn’t viable. Verizon has become the first mobile carrier to offer this commercial smartphone connectivity on Skylo’s non-terrestrial satellite network, marking a milestone in satellite communications.
“Our work with Verizon strengthens our belief in network convergence between satellite and cellular, and now this vision is a reality today for both consumers and enterprises,” said Parthsarathi Trivedi, CEO of Skylo. “Satellite access isn’t just about reaching out when you’re in trouble; it’s connectivity for staying in touch with your loved ones wherever they are. We are excited to partner with the carrier known globally for its powerful performance and reliable service as we bring a new level of connectivity from space.”
Verizon has been a key player in the IoT space with offerings like 4G NB-IoT and its emerging RedCap services. The collaboration with Skylo has enabled Verizon to develop satellite IoT solutions, with successful trials showing how Verizon-enabled IoT devices can seamlessly switch to Skylo’s satellite network when terrestrial coverage is unavailable, thereby extending IoT device coverage geographically.
“Verizon’s network boasts an exceptionally large terrestrial cellular network and covers more than 99% of the population in the USA,” said Kalapala. “However, there are occasional enterprise needs for IoT devices in places where people don’t live or regularly visit. Satellite IoT in combination with Verizon’s terrestrial assets creates the perfect combination for IoT in the most remote parts of the country and over land, air and sea without having to use a separate physical device.”
This satellite IoT capability is set to transform industries like transportation, agriculture, maritime, and environmental monitoring, providing essential connectivity in places that were previously unreachable. In agriculture, for instance, satellite IoT can monitor livestock, crops, and environmental factors in remote areas, while asset tracking applications can leverage satellite networks to provide real-time data even in the middle of the ocean.
The satellite roaming arrangement is ideal for IoT devices that are low in complexity, low in data throughput, and highly energy-efficient. In a recent proof-of-concept, Verizon and Skylo successfully demonstrated the ability for a Verizon IoT device to roam seamlessly between Verizon’s cellular network and Skylo’s satellite network, showcasing the potential for this innovative technology.
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