The partnership will enable the global integration of NB-IoT through Iridium’s satellite network, marking a milestone in universal connectivity for the Internet of Things.
Iridium Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: IRDM) has announced its collaboration with Nordic Semiconductor to integrate the Iridium NTN Direct℠ service into Nordic’s LTE-M/NB-IoT modules and chipsets. This partnership is positioned as a key advancement in the development of global satellite-based IoT services, expanding connectivity capabilities for tracking applications, utility metering, and remote industrial monitoring.
Iridium NTN Direct: Towards the First Global NB-IoT Network
The Iridium NTN Direct℠ service, developed as part of Iridium’s Project Stardust initiative, is designed to be the first truly global NB-IoT network. Leveraging the recent decision by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) to incorporate Iridium-compatible enhancements in the upcoming Release 19 standard, this service will enable any device with a compatible chipset to access Iridium’s satellite network.
Nordic Semiconductor will integrate Iridium NTN Direct into its roadmap for the 3GPP Release 19 NTN standard, providing global connectivity to a wide range of consumer and industrial devices.
Key Benefits of the Integration
- Global Coverage: Thanks to Iridium’s satellite network, devices will be able to operate anywhere in the world, even in adverse weather conditions.
- Efficient Connection: Nordic’s modules, such as the nRF9151, are designed to provide low-cost and high-efficiency connectivity.
- Massive IoT: This collaboration promotes the vision of universal and scalable connectivity for massive IoT, which is essential in sectors like logistics, healthcare, and industry.
Bryan Hartin, Executive Vice President of Iridium, commented:
“Integrating Iridium NTN Direct into Nordic’s modules and chipsets opens new possibilities for devices that need to stay connected anywhere on the planet. We are excited to collaborate with Nordic and leverage their expertise in developing chipsets and devices.”
Oyvind Birkenes, Executive Vice President of the Long-Distance Business Unit at Nordic Semiconductor, added:
“It is exciting that Iridium is taking this step to enable cost-effective NB-IoT modules and chipsets like those from Nordic to connect to their satellite network. This brings us closer to the vision of truly global connectivity for IoT.”
Advanced Features of the Iridium Network
The Iridium NTN Direct service is backed by Iridium’s satellite network, known for:
- Global Coverage: The only satellite network that covers the entire planet.
- Climate Resilience: It operates even in extreme weather conditions.
- Globally Coordinated Spectrum: Ensures reliability and security for critical applications.
Next Steps and Availability
The 3GPP Release 19 standard is expected to be formally completed by the end of 2025, at which time Iridium NTN Direct is anticipated to be fully operational. Iridium will present more details about the service at the Mobile World Congress Las Vegas during the NTN Summit on October 9, 2024.
For more information about Iridium NTN Direct, visit: Iridium NTN Direct.
About Iridium Communications Inc.
Iridium® operates the only global satellite communication network for voice and data, connecting people, organizations, and assets in real time from anywhere in the world. With an ecosystem of strategic partners, Iridium offers innovative and reliable solutions for markets that require global connectivity. In 2024, the company acquired Satelles and announced the Iridium Satellite Time and Location service. Iridium is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, USA, and trades on Nasdaq under the symbol IRDM.
via: Iridium