Inmarsat and Vodafone Marry Cellular to Satellite for IoT

It seems like it could be a match made in heaven: cellular connectivity where there’s infrastructure, satellite signal for remote areas. The result should be seamless global signal with high speed and power.

Inmarsat, a provider of global mobile satellite communications, and Vodafone have announced a new roaming agreement designed to enable international satellite and cellular roaming connectivity for the Internet of Things (IoT) that the companies say will deliver greater reliability and reach than either has been able to offer previously.

“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 utilize broadband roaming services on our global network.”

Thanks to its ubiquitous coverage and high network availability, even in extreme environmental conditions, satellite-powered IoT will allow organizations to extend their services beyond terrestrial networks if they have remote connectivity requirements, for example in the agri-tech, utilities, oil and gas and transportation sectors.

“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,” said Ivo Rook, Director of IoT, Vodafone. “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.”

The agreement will use the Inmarsat I-4 satellite network providing global L-band coverage.

I look forward to seeing what this couple is up to at their first anniversary.