San Francisco, CA – The European Investment Bank (EIB) has announced it will provide financing under the InvestEU program to OQ Technology, a satellite Internet of Things (IoT) company. This investment aims to bolster OQ Technology’s efforts to expand its global satellite network and provide connectivity solutions for a wide range of industries, including logistics, agriculture, and energy. The move underscores the growing importance of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) in extending connectivity to remote and underserved areas.
The financing comes at a time of increasing interest in satellite-based IoT solutions. Traditional terrestrial networks often struggle to reach remote locations or provide reliable coverage in challenging environments. NTN technology, leveraging satellites to provide connectivity, offers a compelling alternative. OQ Technology is positioning itself as a key player in this emerging market, focusing on narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) over satellite, a technology standardized by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). This standardization is crucial, as it allows devices to seamlessly connect to both terrestrial and satellite networks, offering greater flexibility and resilience.
Expanding Connectivity Through Satellite IoT
OQ Technology’s core business revolves around providing connectivity for IoT devices in areas where traditional cellular networks are unavailable or impractical. The company utilizes a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites to relay data between devices and ground stations. This approach is particularly valuable for applications requiring real-time monitoring and control in remote locations. The InvestEU backing will enable OQ Technology to accelerate the deployment of its satellite infrastructure and expand its service offerings.
The InvestEU program, launched in 2021, is designed to mobilize private investment for projects that support EU policy priorities, including the digital transition and sustainable development. By providing guarantees and other financial instruments, InvestEU aims to reduce investment risk and encourage private sector participation in key projects. The EIB’s commitment to OQ Technology demonstrates the program’s focus on innovative technologies that can drive economic growth and improve quality of life. More information about the InvestEU program can be found on the EIB website.
3GPP Release 17 and the Rise of NTN
A significant enabler of satellite IoT is the standardization work carried out by the 3GPP. Release 17, finalized in 2022, introduced support for NTN, specifically incorporating NB-IoT and 5G New Radio (NR) for satellite communications. The 3GPP’s presentation on standards for IoT details the technical aspects of this integration. This standardization allows devices designed for terrestrial networks to connect to satellites without requiring specialized hardware, significantly reducing costs and complexity.
The adoption of 3GPP standards is already visible in the consumer market. Google’s Pixel 9 series, launched in August 2024, incorporates satellite connectivity for emergency messaging, utilizing Skylo’s NTN. Android Authority details how Skylo’s network powers the Pixel 9’s satellite communication capabilities. Similarly, Samsung’s Galaxy S25 also features NTN connectivity, leveraging NB-IoT over satellite. Nokia’s blog post discusses the broader trend of satellite connectivity in smartphones. These developments demonstrate the growing maturity and commercial viability of NTN technology.
How NTN Works: Connecting Devices via Satellite
Non-Terrestrial Networks operate by establishing a direct communication link between IoT devices and satellites orbiting the Earth. Unlike traditional cellular networks that rely on ground-based towers, NTN utilizes satellites as relay stations. When a device needs to transmit data, it sends a signal to the nearest satellite, which then relays the signal to a ground station for processing. This process allows for connectivity in areas where terrestrial infrastructure is limited or non-existent.
The use of NB-IoT over satellite is particularly advantageous for IoT applications requiring low bandwidth and long battery life. NB-IoT is designed for minor data transmissions, making it ideal for sensors and other devices that only need to send occasional updates. The low power consumption of NB-IoT also extends battery life, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements.
Applications and Impact of Satellite IoT
The potential applications of satellite IoT are vast and span numerous industries. In agriculture, satellite connectivity can enable precision farming techniques, allowing farmers to monitor soil conditions, track livestock, and optimize irrigation systems in remote fields. In logistics, it can provide real-time tracking of assets, ensuring supply chain visibility and reducing the risk of theft or loss. The energy sector can benefit from remote monitoring of pipelines and infrastructure, improving safety and efficiency.
satellite IoT plays a crucial role in disaster response and emergency communications. In the event of a natural disaster, when terrestrial networks are often disrupted, satellite connectivity can provide a lifeline for emergency services and affected communities. The ability to send and receive messages, even in the absence of cellular coverage, can be critical for coordinating rescue efforts and providing assistance to those in need.
Key Takeaways
- The EIB is providing financing to OQ Technology to expand its satellite IoT network under the InvestEU program.
- 3GPP Release 17 standardization of NTN, including NB-IoT, is a key enabler of satellite connectivity.
- Satellite IoT offers connectivity solutions for remote areas and critical applications like agriculture, logistics, and disaster response.
- The Google Pixel 9 and Samsung Galaxy S25 are among the first smartphones to incorporate NTN connectivity for emergency messaging.
Looking ahead, the satellite IoT market is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years. As the cost of satellite technology continues to decline and the availability of NTN services increases, more and more businesses and individuals will adopt these solutions. OQ Technology, with the backing of the EIB and the support of the 3GPP standards, is well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market and play a leading role in shaping the future of connectivity.
OQ Technology plans to use the funding to further develop its satellite infrastructure, expand its network coverage, and enhance its service offerings. The company is also focused on building partnerships with other technology providers and industry stakeholders to accelerate the adoption of satellite IoT solutions. The next major milestone for OQ Technology is the planned launch of additional satellites in 2026, which will significantly increase its network capacity and coverage area. Readers interested in learning more about OQ Technology’s services can visit their official website at www.oqtechnology.com.
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