SoftBank Corp. and Intelsat Announce Historic Collaboration for Global Ubiquitous Network
Revolutionary hybrid communication technology to bridge the gap between terrestrial and satellite networks, enabling uninterrupted 5G connections across the globe.
SoftBank Corp. (“SoftBank”) and Intelsat have officially signed a landmark agreement aimed at revolutionizing global connectivity. Their collaboration will lead to the development of a single “Ubiquitous Network,” allowing seamless connections between terrestrial mobile networks and satellite communications networks. The partnership marks a major advancement in 5G communications and promises to make universal connectivity a reality, even in the most remote locations on Earth.
What is a Ubiquitous Network?
A Ubiquitous Network refers to a communication system where users and devices are continuously connected, regardless of their location. This type of network ensures that individuals and systems can access data, services, and communication tools without interruption, utilizing both terrestrial (land-based) and non-terrestrial (satellite-based) networks. The convenience of one device and one account provides universal access across various geographical landscapes, from urban centers to the most remote regions.
Key Characteristics of a Ubiquitous Network:
- Seamless Connectivity: Users remain connected whether they are in urban areas, rural zones, or even maritime regions.
- Interoperability: Devices can switch between terrestrial and satellite networks without losing connection or needing multiple accounts.
- Global Coverage: The network spans the globe, providing service in areas that are otherwise difficult to reach with traditional mobile networks.
- Unified Device and Account: A single device and account ensure convenience, reducing the need for multiple tools and subscriptions to maintain connectivity.
The Next Frontier in Global Connectivity
As reliance on connectivity becomes ever more essential in today’s world, the challenge of staying connected across different terrains and remote areas remains a significant obstacle. While terrestrial mobile networks cover vast areas, many regions, such as rural, maritime, and disaster-prone zones, still lack sufficient coverage. Currently, users must rely on multiple devices and separate accounts to switch between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.
SoftBank and Intelsat’s joint efforts will address these gaps by developing hybrid communication technology that allows users to remain connected seamlessly via one device and one account, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. This solution will use 3GPP 5G non-terrestrial network standards, the same architecture that enables devices to roam across terrestrial cellular networks today.
Bridging the Digital Divide with Hybrid Solutions
The collaboration will focus on creating universal devices capable of maintaining uninterrupted connectivity by transitioning between mobile and satellite networks. For instance, connected vehicles could use this technology to switch from terrestrial networks to satellite communication as they travel outside standard coverage zones, ensuring reliable communication in every environment.
This hybrid approach is expected to have broad commercial applications, including in areas such as maritime communications, land mobility, disaster recovery, and autonomous vehicle navigation. It will not only enhance the efficiency of mobile communications but also support critical services in remote and underdeveloped regions.
Accelerating the 5G Revolution
The development process between SoftBank and Intelsat will roll out in phases, aligning with advancements in 3GPP’s 5G non-terrestrial standards. As part of their joint mission, the two companies will undertake extensive research, design, field testing, and commercialization of their hybrid communication products. While existing satellite terminals will be used initially, newer 5G-based terminals will be introduced as the technology matures.
Bruno Fromont, Chief Technology Officer at Intelsat, emphasized the significance of the collaboration: “Intelsat and SoftBank share a pioneering vision of Ubiquitous Networking and seamless interoperability between satellite and terrestrial networks. With recent progress on 5G-based standardization of non-terrestrial networks led by Intelsat at 3GPP, and this strategic collaboration with SoftBank, we are ideally positioned to accelerate the design and practical implementation of commercial hybrid services.”
Hideyuki Tsukuda, Executive Vice President and CTO of SoftBank, echoed these sentiments: “Through this joint research and development, SoftBank and Intelsat will aim to build a Ubiquitous Network where people and things around the world can be connected to communication anytime, anywhere.”
About Intelsat
Intelsat, a leading provider of satellite-based communications, has long been at the forefront of the satellite industry. With a next-generation global network and managed services, the company provides secure communications to governments, NGOs, and commercial customers worldwide. Intelsat’s expansive satellite fleet and infrastructure have helped bridge the digital divide for decades. The company continues to lead in innovation as it focuses on the next wave of advancements in the space sector.
