Skylo has unveiled satellite connectivity capability for smartphones powered by Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System from Qualcomm Technologies. This built-in access to Skylo’s Non-Terrestrial-Network (NTN) is designed to enable smartphones using Snapdragon X80 with support for direct communications over satellite. This includes two-way peer-to-peer text messaging, location sharing and SOS notification to emergency services.
The Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System maximises data speeds and performance, supports superior call connectivity and coverage and extends battery life on mobile devices. Snapdragon Modem-RF systems are synonymous with mobility and are the foundation for 5G connectivity across smartphones, IoT devices, wearables, automotive and other segments using chipsets from Qualcomm Technologies. The Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF System has completed all testing and is now Skylo certified.
Skylo’s global non-terrestrial network (NTN) utilises dedicated Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) spectrum to reach nine Earth stations across half a dozen partner constellations with more than 50 million square kilometres of coverage, ensuring that smartphones can switch from cellular networks to satellite and stay connected. The use of MSS allows Skylo to provide comprehensive satellite connectivity to smartphones using Snapdragon X80 5G Modem-RF without requiring carriers to allocate valuable terrestrial spectrum or go through extensive regulatory hurdles.
“This is an impressive moment for cellular connectivity made possible by the strength of Skylo’s pioneering network and Qualcomm Technologies’ Snapdragon X80,” said Francesco Grilli, the vice president of product management, Qualcomm Technologies. “First we brought NTN to IoT and together, we’re making significant strides in smartphone connectivity. We are extremely proud of this collaboration with Skylo and look forward to what’s possible as we continue expanding satellite access to other industries, like enterprise, automotive and wearables.”
Andrew Nuttall, the CTO and co- founder of Skylo, said, “Our work with Qualcomm Technologies provides smartphone users the peace of mind that comes with satellite connectivity. Qualcomm Technologies has been an exemplary partner and we look forward to introducing new, exciting satellite integrations into everyday use-cases.”
More information on the Snapdragon X80 Modem-RF System can be found here.
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