The integration of terrestrial and satellite networks continues to reshape the Internet of Things (IoT) landscape, enabling coverage even in the most remote environments. A new collaboration between GCT Semiconductor and Iridium Communications signals growing momentum for such convergence. The joint effort seeks to enhance GCT’s GDM7243SL chipset by incorporating Iridium NTN Direct℠, which will create opportunities for globally connected devices and services. This move addresses evolving market needs for sectors such as logistics, agriculture, and emergency communication, reducing the divide between terrestrial and satellite network access.
Over recent years, partnerships looking to blend satellite and cellular IoT technologies have focused on improving coverage and reliability. Earlier industry announcements often targeted broader proof-of-concept agreements or limited NB-IoT trials, while actual commercial deployments remained limited. This latest step from GCT and Iridium builds on such groundwork, moving beyond basic interoperability and targeting 3GPP Release 19 requirements for a more integrated, standards-based solution. By directly embedding Iridium NTN capabilities, this project may accelerate widespread adoption compared to earlier collaborations in the field.
What Does GCT Aim to Achieve with Iridium NTN NB-IoT?
GCT intends to advance its multi-mode GDM7243SL 4G/5G chipset to support Iridium’s non-terrestrial network (NTN) Narrowband IoT features. By leveraging the NTN Direct standards, the chipset will deliver global connectivity, addressing industries requiring seamless tracking, messaging, and low-power operation beyond conventional cellular reach. The integration is designed with the next phase of 5G in mind, where satellite and terrestrial networks will increasingly converge.
How Will the Joint Development Address Market Needs?
The companies plan to cooperate on both technical and commercial fronts. Together, they will assess potential business models and use cases for the enhanced chipset. This approach targets users who require “truly global, reliable standards-based connectivity in a compact, efficient form,” according to Greg Pelton, CTO of Iridium. The project reflects heightened demand for resilient IoT, including asset trackers, satellite phones, and sensors operating in off-grid areas.
Which Benefits Will Industry Stakeholders Expect from this Initiative?
For clients and developers, the combination of Iridium’s NTN Direct and GCT’s chipset is expected to offer a broader range of applications and deployment scenarios. These include more reliable real-time tracking, rapid deployment in disaster zones, and improved support for agricultural monitoring. The ability to switch dynamically between terrestrial and satellite coverage within a single device presents manufacturers with greater flexibility and potential cost efficiencies.
“Building on our expertise in 4G, 5G, and NTN technology, along with our leading multi-mode IoT chip, GDM7243SL, we are excited to broaden our reach into the non-terrestrial market. Working with Iridium, our goal is to address the growing need for trackers, satellite phones, and other IoT solutions.”
While the collaboration marks a significant technical integration effort, market adoption will depend on device certification, service rollout strategies, and competitive offerings in the satellite IoT arena. Notably, previous efforts to blend satellite and cellular IoT have faced challenges including cost and device complexity. However, direct integration at the chipset level, as announced by GCT and Iridium, may lower barriers to entry and simplify solutions for device manufacturers. For stakeholders, keeping abreast of NB-IoT chipset developments will be critical as satellite networks play a larger role in mainstream IoT deployments. Manufacturers should prioritize solutions that account for power consumption, network switching, and regulatory compliance in diverse global markets.
