MediaTek showcased its cutting-edge 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology at MWC 2023. The first smartphones with MediaTek’s satellite connectivity are set to launch, enabling two-way satellite communications for smartphones; with more devices expected to be unveiled in the coming months. MediaTek also provided a preview of its next-generation 5G New Radio NTN (NR-NTN) technology for future satellite-enabled devices.
Satellite networks are designed to fill gaps in mobile coverage, allowing dependable communication in remote locations. Satellite-enabled smartphones will enable users to stay connected in various situations, such as hiking, driving in remote areas, or boating, where traditional connectivity is limited.
The primary market for 3GPP NTN technology is currently smartphones, but there is growing demand for satellite connectivity in IoT applications such as agriculture, forestry, and logistics. The automotive industry is also expected to be a significant market for satellite communications technology in the future.
“Two-way satellite communications on smartphones and other devices will usher us into a new era of connectivity and open up new possibilities across many different verticals,” said JC Hsu, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of MediaTek’s wireless communications business unit.
“Our standalone MT6825 chipsets, which are based on the 3GPP NTN open standard, can be integrated into any flagship smartphone to deliver a seamless satellite connectivity experience.”
MediaTek’s satellite communications portfolio will target both IoT-NTN and NR-NTN technology based on the 3GPP 5G specification for Release 17 (R17) over the coming years. IoT-NTN works for messaging, designed for low data rate connections; while NR-NTN supports higher data rates for applications like video calls.
The initial wave of satellite-enabled smartphones and devices powered by MediaTek will be created for two-way satellite messaging services, as satellite networks currently only support IoT-NTN on a big scale.
MediaTek is collaborating with Bullitt to introduce the world’s first commercially available devices with 3GPP NTN technology, using the MT6825 chipset to connect to the Bullitt Satellite Connect platform. This includes the Motorola defy 2 and CAT S75 smartphones and the Motorola defy satellite link, a compact Bluetooth accessory that enables Android and iOS devices to connect to the Bullitt Satellite Connect platform.
Bullitt Satellite Connect service will offer users two-way satellite messaging, location sharing, and emergency SOS in more locations worldwide.
MediaTek’s IoT-NTN solutions are standalone chipsets that can be added to any 4G or 5G device, making it easy for brands to integrate two-way satellite communications. The chipsets use the open 3GPP R17 NTN standard, unlike proprietary solutions offered by competitors. This allows OEMs to create devices certified for 3GPP R17 IoT-NTN that can be used on any IoT-NTN-compliant network.
Mobile network operators can also collaborate with service providers to offer roaming services or establish their satellite networks supporting the standard.
MediaTek’s MT6825 IoT-NTN chipset offers several unique features, including compatibility with Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit (GEO) constellations, automatic message reception from satellites, low system requirements, power efficiency, and a highly integrated design for faster time to market.
Visit www.mediatek.com for more information.
