Direct-to-Cell IoT: designing satellite-ready devices for global coverage

The IoT is rapidly expanding beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. This is driving demand for Direct-to-Cell connectivity across industries such as logistics, agriculture, maritime, and environmental monitoring. Unlike newer non-terrestrial approaches standardized in 3GPP 17 and 18, Direct-to-Cell - which SpaceX recently branded Starlink Mobile - is built on LTE standards from 3GPP 10 onwards. This enables Cat 1, Cat 1 bis and Cat 4 modules to connect directly to satellites without additional specialized hardware, if they support operation bands in the intended service countries.

As plans become available via global partners in approved countries, and as relationships between satellite operators and mobile network operators continue to mature, Direct-to-Cell is fast becoming a key enabler of truly global IoT coverage. This has the potential to deliver ubiquitous connectivity to millions of IoT devices across critical global industries. It also provides an opportunity to be first-to-market with Direct-to-Cell solutions in remote locations while removing manual equipment checks.

Direct-to-Cell IoT device design: challenges and solutions

However, designing IoT devices for Direct-to-Cell connectivity introduces new challenges. Compared to traditional cellular deployments, satellite links involve longer communication distances, intermittent coverage windows, and increased latency. This places greater emphasis on power consumption, antenna performance, and RF sensitivity.

Developers must also carefully select modules that support satellite capabilities and optimize firmware to manage intermittent connections efficiently. In addition, factors such as link budget constraints, device form factor, and environmental conditions can all impact performance. Together, these factors make it essential to take a holistic approach to device design. These considerations are critical to ensuring reliable, energy-efficient operation in challenging environments.

In this Masterclass we will provide practical insight into how Direct-to-Cell is reshaping IoT design and deployment strategies. Our experts will examine how developers can reduce complexity and time-to-market, as well as optimizing RF and antenna integration designs. The webinar will provide practical design guidance on matters such as module selection, power management strategies, and firmware approaches to ensure reliable performance. Join us to discover how Direct-to-Cell technology is shaping the future of IoT connectivity and how you can design devices ready for truly global coverage.

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