SoftBank Corp. and Intelsat have announced a groundbreaking collaboration to develop a “Ubiquitous Network” that seamlessly integrates terrestrial mobile and satellite communications. This initiative aims to provide users with uninterrupted connectivity worldwide, utilising a single device and account. The partnership will focus on creating hybrid communication solutions based on 3GPP 5G non-terrestrial network standards, enabling devices to automatically switch between terrestrial and satellite networks as needed.
Potential applications include connected vehicles, maritime communications, and disaster response, ensuring consistent connectivity even in areas lacking traditional mobile coverage. Development and commercialisation of these hybrid network products will occur in phases, aligning with the advancement of 5G non-terrestrial network standards.
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