Vodafone IoT is partnering Skylo Technologies to bring NTN NB-IoT satellite connectivity services.

In the initial phase, the two companies will work together to trial the technology with a view to offering a full commercial service in the near future. Skylo runs a global non-terrestrial network (NTN) spanning 36 countries across 70 million square kilometres of coverage.

Together, the companies will provide more coverage for Vodafone IoT’s customers and unlock opportunities for businesses by providing an overlay to existing cellular connectivity for IoT devices. This collaboration underscores growing demand for seamless, scalable and secure connectivity.

Skylo and Vodafone IoT’s network cores will integrate, enabling customers to switch seamlessly between cellular and NTN connectivity from a single Vodafone SIM. With sectors such as asset tracking and energy services to environmental monitoring and fleet management set to benefit, this hybrid connectivity model will supply industries with seamless multi-national connectivity.

Furthermore, users will be able to continue managing their IoT estates using Vodafone IoT’s managed connectivity platform for both their cellular and NTN connectivity needs.

Skylo’s network orchestrates across multiple constellations of satellites, and integrates directly into existing chipsets, modules and operating systems. Skylo has certified modules from a robust global chipset and module ecosystem, serving as the foundation for a wide range of use cases.

“As we continue our mission to provide our customers with truly global IoT connectivity, today marks another significant step forwards,” said Erik Brenneis, CEO of Vodafone IoT (iot.vodafone.com). “Our new partnership with Skylo will help us deliver ubiquitous connectivity for our customers and make a step-change in network access, reliability and resilience which together will enable the next wave of innovative IoT.”

Parthsarathi Trivedi, CEO of Skylo, added: “This trial is a critical step in bringing our 3GPP-compliant satellite connectivity to Vodafone’s IoT ecosystem. We are demonstrating how Skylo’s network can seamlessly extend Vodafone IoT’s reach into the most remote areas, adding millions of square kilometres of coverage. It’s about proving that anywhere connectivity is no longer a future concept, it’s here, it’s standards-based and it’s ready for global scale.”

Skylo Technologies (www.skylo.tech) is a global NTN service provider based in Mountain View, California, offering a service that allows smartphones, wearables, vehicles and IoT cellular devices to connect directly over existing satellites.