Viasat tests D2D with BSNL

18 October 2024

Viasat has tested direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity in India for the first time, in collaboration with BSNL, part of a move that aims to expand satellite services for consumer and IoT devices globally.

Viasat detailed that it tested satellite-powered two-way and SOS messaging services on a commercial Android device for attendees at the India Mobile Congress. The messages were sent 36,000km to one of Viasat’s geostationary L-band satellites. Viasat stated that the results demonstrated that satellite services to smartphones are ‘technically feasible’ for Indian consumers and businesses using its satellite network.

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Telkomsat targets maritime sector with BNM

14 October 2024

Telkomsat is partnering with Bhinneka Nusantara Mandiri (BNM) to use capacity from the new Merah Putih 2 satellite to accelerate digital transformation in the maritime sector.

According to Telkomsat, Indonesia's maritime sector has struggled to embrace the digital transformation initiatives seen in other industries. Limited satellite capacity and unstable connectivity have hampered the ability of fishing boats and commercial vessels to leverage reliable, real-time connectivity services.

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Inflection for APAC’s IFC market

08 October 2024

Vaibhav Magow, Vice President, International Division, Hughes Network Systems

In-flight connectivity (IFC) remains rare on Asian-Pacific airlines primarily due to cost. The initial investment in IFC technology can be significant, and many Asian-Pacific airlines might be hesitant to make this substantial financial commitment, especially if they perceive the demand for such services as not yet critical.

Beyond that, implementing IFC requires advanced technology and substantial logistical efforts, including downtime for aircraft installation. Airlines need to devote resources to placing their aircraft into maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities to perform the upgrades.

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Geespace and Altel Communications to partner on D2D technology

08 October 2024

Geespace and Altel Communications have agreed to establish an R&D centre to develop use cases for direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications technology.

Geespace – a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group established in 2018 – and Altel will establish a study and research centre, as well as a centre of excellence, to accelerate development of D2D satellite solutions for Malaysia.

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