Iridium and Deutsche Telekom Partner on IoT Connectivity

Iridium Communications Inc. partnered with Deutsche Telekom to enhance global Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity through the Iridium Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) Direct service. This collaboration aims to provide seamless roaming access to Iridium's satellite network, allowing customers to connect their IoT devices from any location.

Scheduled for a commercial launch in 2026, the Iridium NTN Direct service will offer Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) direct-to-device connectivity. This initiative expands Deutsche Telekom’s IoT capabilities beyond traditional mobile networks, enabling applications such as messaging, tracking, and monitoring.

Matt Desch, CEO of Iridium, indicated that the service is designed to work alongside terrestrial networks. Jens Olejak, Head of Satellite IoT at Deutsche Telekom, emphasized the integration will provide improved coverage for sensors and vehicles, utilizing affordable 5G devices that operate across both terrestrial and NTN.

Upon completion of testing and integration, the two companies plan to finalize a roaming agreement to facilitate full commercial service launch. Iridium’s global satellite network offers comprehensive coverage, even in adverse weather conditions, leveraging L-band spectrum and LEO Constellation (Low Earth Orbit) (LEO) technology.