Businesses working in remote environments often face persistent challenges when it comes to maintaining reliable connectivity for their IoT devices. Deutsche Telekom’s introduction of multi-orbit IoT roaming brings a new level of flexibility, integrating terrestrial, GEO, and LEO networks under one umbrella. This solution answers industry calls for resilient, standardized IoT coverage suitable for transport, maritime, and critical infrastructure even beyond mobile networks’ traditional reach.
Earlier deployments of IoT satellite connectivity generally depended on niche, proprietary hardware or single-orbit configurations, which limited widespread applicability and cross-network compatibility. Deutsche Telekom’s current approach, utilizing multiple constellations and 3GPP-compliant modules, sets it apart from previous projects focused on isolated, non-interoperable satellite solutions. With partners like Skylo, Sateliot, and OQ Technology, and forthcoming integration with Iridium’s NTN Direct, the offering now covers a broader range of use cases and geographies compared to initial pilot programs. This development shifts the market from experimentation toward commercial-scale, standards-based multi-orbit IoT services.
How Does Multi-Orbit Roaming Strengthen IoT Connectivity?
Deutsche Telekom’s system leverages geostationary (GEO) satellites for stable, persistent coverage and low earth orbit (LEO) satellites for rapid data transfer and broad reach in remote or high-latitude areas. These combined assets allow IoT devices to maintain data transmission through terrestrial or satellite networks as conditions require. The implementation extends reliable Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) and LTE-M coverage, ensuring higher service continuity for connected devices in challenging or distant locations.
Which Partners and Technologies Support the Solution?
Collaboration with Skylo, Sateliot, OQ Technology, and Iridium underpins the system’s multi-orbit capabilities. The integration of Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF9151 module, which is 3GPP-compliant, permits both terrestrial and non-terrestrial connectivity from a single device. Companies like KYOCERA AVX provide antennas tuned to the required satellite frequency bands to support NB-NTN operation over GEO and LEO. These industry collaborations enable manufacturers to develop dual-purpose hardware, reducing costs and technical complexity for businesses seeking widespread IoT deployment.
What Real-World Applications Benefit from Multi-Orbit IoT?
Participants in Deutsche Telekom’s Early Adopter Programs are already testing and adopting the new solution across various industries. For instance, Datakorum provides real-time, remote asset monitoring and operational control for water, energy, and oil infrastructure using this multi-layered connectivity. EMA’s BlueTraker solutions optimize vessel tracking for maritime compliance under changing EU regulations. MountAIn employs the system for deploying AI-powered sensors that detect remote hazards, such as wildfires or industrial risks, where traditional mobile networks are unavailable. These early case studies highlight improved resilience and flexibility for IoT networks.
Jens Olejak, Head of Satellite IoT at Deutsche Telekom IoT, commented on the significance of the development:
“This establishes Deutsche Telekom as the leading global network operator offering IoT connectivity across multiple satellite orbits, both technically and commercially.”
The company added that further integration of Iridium’s NTN Direct service is expected to expand coverage for enterprise IoT customers:
“Iridium’s LEO constellation, known for its proven reliability and truly global coverage, will further enhance Deutsche Telekom’s non-terrestrial roaming footprint.”
Integrating multi-orbit IoT roaming into commercial offerings reflects the convergence of terrestrial and non-terrestrial network standards. Enterprises deploying sensor-driven solutions now have a more streamlined path to continuous connectivity, with an ability to swap between terrestrial, GEO, and LEO networks as dictated by geography and operational needs. The move also addresses interoperability challenges historically seen in satellite IoT projects. As standardized, SIM-based architectures become more common, device manufacturers have new opportunities to develop cost-effective, globally compatible solutions for diverse sectors—ranging from logistics to energy infrastructure.
