What's Happening?
Iridium Communications Inc. has announced the commencement of live testing for its NTN Direct service in collaboration with Mlink Technology Inc. The testing involves Mlink's MS150-IR IoT-NTN chipset, which is part of Mlink's global IoT-NTN product portfolio.
This development marks a significant step in expanding Iridium's ecosystem for standards-based NB-IoT and D2D connectivity. The collaboration aims to extend low-power IoT connectivity beyond terrestrial networks, leveraging Iridium's global satellite platform. The companies expect certification and product availability by the end of 2026.
Why It's Important?
The live testing of Iridium NTN Direct with Mlink represents a pivotal advancement in satellite-based IoT connectivity. By integrating satellite connectivity into existing products and networks, Iridium and Mlink are reducing technical and commercial barriers, enabling broader coverage and improved resilience for IoT applications. This development is crucial for industries such as logistics, agriculture, and remote infrastructure, where reliable connectivity is essential. The collaboration highlights the potential for satellite technology to enhance global connectivity, offering new opportunities for device manufacturers and network operators.
What's Next?
Following the successful live testing phase, Iridium and Mlink anticipate the certification of the MS150-IR chipset later in 2026. This will pave the way for commercial availability, allowing partners and customers to access high-quality, standards-compliant options for global IoT connectivity. The collaboration is expected to drive further innovations in satellite communication, potentially leading to new applications and services that leverage Iridium's unique network of low Earth orbit satellites.
