Vodafone announced it has entered into a roaming agreement with Inmarsat, with the ambition to enable international satellite and cellular roaming connectivity for the Internet of Things (IoT).
Thanks to its ubiquitous coverage and high network availability, even in extreme environmental conditions, satellite-powered IoT allows organisations to extend their services beyond terrestrial networks, where they have remote connectivity requirements, for example in the agri-tech, utilities, oil and gas and transportation sectors.
Inmarsat’s Broadband Global Access Network (BGAN) complements Vodafone’s current connectivity portfolio with lower bandwidth, lighter weight, more portable satellite terminals and satellite communications resilience in harsh weather.
Vodafone director of IoT, Ivo Rook said, “Success in IoT demands a mix of different technologies for different applications. By adding satellite connectivity from Inmarsat to the Vodafone portfolio we continue to deliver on our strategy to lead in managed IoT services. The IoT is transforming businesses in every sector and I am delighted we are able to support more of our customers in taking advantage of all that this technology has to offer.”
“Deploying satellite connectivity to complement terrestrial networks for IoT applications changes the Internet of Things into the Internet of Everywhere. The growth in mission critical IoT applications, is driving demand for connectivity with unprecedented reach, range and reliability on a global basis”, said Rupert Pearce, CEO, Inmarsat. “This agreement marks a first for Inmarsat; enabling a mobile operator to utilise broadband roaming services on our global network.”
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