Viasat Demonstrates Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity in Saudi Arabia

Satellite communications company Viasat recently announced that it has successfully demonstrated Direct-to-Device (D2D) satellite connectivity in Saudi Arabia, marking a first for the region. The demonstration took place during the ‘Connecting the World from the Skies’ event in Riyadh, hosted by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

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Also Read: BSNL and Viasat Trial Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity

First D2D Satellite Demo in Saudi Arabia

Using a commercial Android smartphone enabled for non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity and the Bullitt messaging app, Viasat sent satellite-enabled two-way and SOS messages via its L-band satellite, which orbits above the Indian Ocean. The connectivity was enabled by 3GPP standards-based Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) infrastructure, deployed in collaboration with partner Skylo.

According to Viasat, D2D is an emerging technology that enables devices such as smartphones, vehicles, and machinery to seamlessly connect to both satellite and terrestrial networks, without requiring additional hardware. “The technology follows new global mobile 3GPP release 17 standards, which are being adopted by satellite operators, mobile network operators, handset and chipset manufacturers,” the satcom company said.

Connectivity via Non-Terrestrial Networks

The demonstration highlighted the potential of satellite-to-cellphone connectivity. Utilising Viasat’s licensed and dedicated satellite spectrum will enable it to work with mobile network operators to provide these services in the future without sacrificing or interfering with any terrestrial spectrum.