Mavenir and Terrestar Solutions Inc. have announced their significant success in achieving voice over NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) through Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN), marking a groundbreaking development for the industry. This milestone, which took place earlier this year, establishes both companies as pioneers in telecom technology, especially concerning remote connectivity solutions.
The collaboration utilizes S-band frequencies, enabling it to operate effectively even within the unique challenges posed by satellite signals. This capability is key, considering the significant obstacles posed by terrestrial interference, which can typically disrupt communications. The design is crafted to engage with GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit) satellite signals, ensuring continuous coverage, even as latency increases.
This industry-first call occurred as early as January 2025, using the Altair ALT1250 codec and incorporating Mavenir's Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology alongside Converged Packet Core. By delivering voice services via the NB-IoT framework, Mavenir and Terrestar have set the stage for smoother integration of satellite services and terrestrial networks, thereby facilitating more seamless connectivity for individuals and businesses operating within challenging terrains.
Jacques Leduc, the President of Terrestar Solutions, commented on the achievement, stating, "Terrestar Solutions demonstrates innovation and leadership as the first MSS provider to offer real-time voice services on Non-Terrestrial Networks fully compliant with 3GPP standards." This quote emphasizes Terrestar's position at the forefront of satellite communications and highlights their successful navigation of regulatory standards.
Similarly, Sachin Karkala, Senior Vice President and General Manager of RAN at Mavenir, noted, "Satellite services complement existing terrestrial networks to expand coverage, particularly for remote regions needing connection the most." His insight sheds light on how the collaboration not only enhances network reliability but also fulfills the pressing demand for connectivity across underserved areas.
At the heart of this innovation is the technology infrastructure provided by Mavenir, which employs environmentally friendly cloud-native solutions. Their commitment to sustainability, coupled with their expertise, allows them to enrich existing network structures with advanced technology.
This move could be transformative for IoT applications, especially as the market trends toward more connected devices. By capitalizing on the advancements made through this collaboration, businesses can broaden their operational capabilities, reach new customers, and optimize services where traditional solutions fall short.
Both Mavenir and Terrestar anticipate broader applications for their NB-IoT solutions, potentially integrating with various IoT systems and enhancing global communication strategies. This is particularly relevant as the need for reliable connectivity expands across different sectors, from healthcare to logistics, where data transmission can significantly impact service delivery.
Given the rapid pace of technological evolution within the telecommunications sector, this ground-breaking collaboration between Mavenir and Terrestar sets the foundation for future innovations. Their successful integration of voice calls within the NB-IoT network not only marks the beginning of new possibilities for satellite communication but also showcases their commitment to enhancing connectivity everywhere.