MediaTek has announced non-terrestrial network (NTN) technology that brings satellite communications to smartphones.
MediaTek today announced that it will demonstrate its 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) satellite connectivity technology for smartphones at MWC 2023. The development comes after Apple introduced satellite connectivity capabilities in his 2022 iPhone 14 series and Qualcomm announced the same technology. At CES 2023 earlier this year.
Satellite connections are gaining considerable popularity these days. The technology aims to fill gaps in mobile coverage and provide connectivity in remote areas. This technology allows users to stay connected while hiking, traveling through remote areas, or engaging in other activities that were previously unconnected.
Current use cases revolve around remote emergencies, but satellite companies also plan to use satellite connectivity in areas such as agriculture, forestry and logistics. The automotive industry is also expected to become a major market for satellite communications technology in the next few years.
MediaTek’s satellite communications products cover IoT-NTN, which supports two-way messaging, and NR-NTN, which enables higher data rates and video calling. For now, however, MediaTek will only focus on his IoT-NTN. The company announced his MT6825 chipset. It can be integrated into leading smartphones to provide a seamless satellite connectivity experience.
Satellite SOS on iPhone 14
According to MediaTek, the MT6825 chipset is compatible with all Geostationary Equatorial Orbit (GEO) constellations. Unlike other solutions, the MT6825 chipset can automatically receive messages from satellites, eliminating the need for manual updates. In addition, it boasts an integrated design with low system requirements, high power efficiency, excellent battery life and smooth operation.
The company has partnered with Bullitt to launch the world’s first commercial device with 3GPP NTN technology. The new devices announced today include the Motorola defy 2 and CAT S75 smartphones, both featuring not only his MT6825 IoT-NTN chipset, but also the MediaTek Dimensity 930 SoC. MediaTek’s IoT-NTN solution is a standalone chipset that can be added to any of his 4G or 5G devices, allowing brands to easily integrate two-way satellite communications into smartphones and other devices.
