Viasat used NB-IoT technology for the first automotive satellite voice call demonstration fully integrated into a BMW vehicle’s platform.

California-based Viasat specialises in satellite communications. The landmark technology demonstration marks a significant step forward as it brings non-terrestrial network (NTN) communications into the connected vehicle ecosystem. This will enable drivers and passengers to stay connected in remote or underserved areas where cellular coverage may be limited or unavailable.

Building on an earlier demonstration with eSIM capabilities from Cubic³, a provider of software-defined vehicle (SDV) technology, Viasat experts in Munich used Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Auto 5G Modem-RF Gen 2 and the Fraunhofer IIS NESC AI voice codec. This enables voice communications to be sent using NB-IoT over Viasat’s L-band satellite network.

For the first time, this technology was integrated with German car maker BMW’s in-vehicle architecture, allowing voice calls to be initiated and managed directly through the vehicle interface. By extending messaging and voice services beyond cellular coverage, automakers can ensure drivers remain connected for emergency assistance and critical safety applications, regardless of location.

“This demonstration reflects broader industry excitement to ensure consistent, resilient satellite capabilities for next-generation vehicles,” said Sandeep Moorthy, senior vice president at Viasat. “By bringing standards-based NTN to vehicles, we can integrate satellite voice and messaging and ultimately enable a future where drivers can remain connected, wherever the journey takes them.”

Viasat, BMW (www.bmwgroup.com), Cubic³ and Fraunhofer IIS are active members of the 5GAA (5G Automotive Association, 5gaa.org), which brings together technology and automotive partners to develop real-world, scalable connectivity for road users. Satellite-enabled automotive connectivity applications include voice and messaging emergency services, fleet management, and over-the-air updates in low-connectivity regions.

NB-IoT, which can support lower data-rate applications, is enabled by global 3GPP standards. Future releases are expected to pave the way for 5G-New Radio (5G-NR) satellite services, which could support video streaming and seamless roaming between terrestrial and satellite networks.

Viasat (www.viasat.com) has offices in 24 countries around the world, and is developing a global communications network to power high-quality, reliable, secure, affordable, fast connections. Viasat acquired Inmarsat in 2023.