OQ Technology and Telefónica Germany Unveil Direct-to-Device Satellite Demo

Key Takeaways

OQ Technology and Telefónica Germany are launching Europe’s first live demonstration of two-way satellite communication with regular smartphones.
The initiative aims to enhance European digital sovereignty and resilience by integrating low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites with existing mobile networks.
This collaboration marks a significant advancement in satellite-mobile communications, supporting services without modifying consumer devices.

Collaboration Overview

OQ Technology, a European direct-to-device (D2D) satellite operator, is partnering with Telefónica Germany to perform the first live demonstration of two-way satellite communications directly to standard smartphones, including iPhones, Samsung, and Google devices. This demonstration is set to take place in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany.

The initiative aims to test the integration of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites with traditional mobile networks, enabling features such as messaging and voice services directly from space. This collaboration signals a notable step forward in European non-terrestrial network (NTN) innovation, showcasing how hybrid terrestrial-satellite systems can enhance the resilience, reach, and independence of Europe’s digital infrastructure.

Under the agreement, OQ Technology will leverage its next-generation satellites and in-house developed multi-band D2D payload technology, utilizing spectrum provided by Telefónica Germany. This setup will validate the direct connectivity abilities of smartphones using licensed mobile frequencies. The payload complies with 3GPP standards, supporting MSS S-band, C-band, and IMT bands and allowing for diverse deployment models for future NTN services.

OQ Technology stands out as the first European entity to operate missions across all three D2D spectrum bands, which strengthens the continent’s position in sovereign satellite-mobile communications. CEO Omar Qaise emphasized the importance of developing a unique and interoperable European mobile infrastructure. The collaboration is seen as proof that European operators and satellite firms can create next-gen connectivity solutions based on open standards and existing devices.

Jörg Kablitz, Telefónica Germany’s chief partner and wholesale officer, stated that this project is crucial for Germany’s digital infrastructure by enabling mobile communication directly between satellites and conventional smartphones. The satellite service is designed to complement current mobile networks, particularly in regions where ground infrastructure is prohibitively expensive or infeasible to expand.

OQ Technology is pioneering a dedicated LEO constellation for D2D and IoT NTN services. The firm develops standardized 3GPP-based satellite connectivity solutions that facilitate direct communication with unmodified smartphones and IoT devices for a variety of applications, including enterprise and government needs.

The demonstration in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania will focus on assessing the interaction between OQ’s satellite network and terrestrial mobile infrastructure, particularly in terms of data performance and operational scenarios where expanding terrestrial coverage poses challenges.

This collaboration underscores the growing relevance of hybrid NTN architectures in future telecommunications. While traditional mobile networks are the primary connectivity backbone, satellite systems can offer essential coverage in remote and underserved areas.

OQ Technology is advancing its multi-band satellite plan, having already demonstrated D2D connectivity using MSS S-band spectrum, with future missions targeting all three spectrum bands. Its in-house developed satellites and payloads allow for rapid innovation and accommodate operator-led NTN deployment models.

The partnership with Telefónica Germany further illustrates OQ Technology’s ability to seamlessly integrate terrestrial and non-terrestrial mobile networks. The project continues to build on their previous collaboration in IoT satellite connectivity, enhancing global monitoring and communication solutions for businesses.

As NTN technologies advance within 3GPP standards and future 6G development, OQ Technology is positioning Europe at the forefront of satellite-mobile convergence and standardized D2D communications.

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