Satellite IoT refers to the use of satellite networks to provide connectivity to IoT devices in areas where terrestrial cellular or WiFi networks are unavailable or unreliable.

With the introduction of 3GPP Release 17, compatible devices can support both cellular and satellite connectivity within the same device architecture.

Devices can now use low-cost cellular connectivity as the primary option and fall back to satellite connectivity when terrestrial coverage is unavailable. This approach reduces cost while maintaining continuous connectivity across different environments.

Satellite IoT plays a critical role in extending coverage, particularly for deployments in remote or hard-to-reach locations such as oceans, rural areas, and infrastructure outside traditional network footprints.

What is NTN (Non-Terrestrial Networks)?

Non-Terrestrial Networks, or NTN, is the standardized framework used to describe satellite-based communication within the 3GPP ecosystem. NTN enables IoT devices to connect using satellite infrastructure in a way that aligns with cellular standards, allowing integration with existing networks, modules, and SIM technologies.

There are several types of NTN architectures:

GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit): Satellites remain fixed relative to the Earth. Offers wide coverage but higher latency
MEO (Medium Earth Orbit): Balances coverage and latency and is used in specific communication systems
LEO (Low Earth Orbit): Provides lower latency and improved performance for IoT, with satellites moving in orbit as part of a constellation

Each type introduces trade-offs between latency, coverage, power consumption, and device complexity, which should be evaluated based on deployment requirements.

The Evolution of Satellite IoT and 3GPP NTN

Satellite connectivity for IoT has evolved from proprietary and hardware-specific solutions into standardized technologies aligned with cellular networks. Previously, satellite IoT required specialized modules, higher power consumption, and complex integration. This limited adoption to specific use cases. With the introduction of 3GPP Release 17 and ongoing enhancements, NTN is now part of the broader cellular ecosystem. This enables:

• Support for satellite connectivity aligned with LTE-M and NB-IoT standards
• Compatibility with existing cellular modules and SIM technologies
• Improved device efficiency and reduced power consumption
• Integration with terrestrial networks to support hybrid connectivity strategies

Satellite connectivity is evolving from a fallback option into a core part of IoT connectivity architecture for deployments that require consistent performance across different regions and environments.

Best Practices for Satellite NTN and Cellular Hybrid Connectivity

Designing for satellite and cellular hybrid connectivity requires planning for how networks behave across different environments.

Design for hybrid connectivity from the start
Prioritize cellular connectivity and use satellite as a fallback when coverage is unavailable. This reduces cost while maintaining reliability across regions.

Ensure device and network compatibility
Devices should support 3GPP NTN standards such as NB-IoT, LTE-M, or NR-NTN. Compatibility with satellite frequency bands and network architecture depends on the satellite provider and deployment environment.

Implement intelligent fallback and recovery logic
Connectivity should adapt dynamically based on network availability. This includes evaluating available cellular networks first, switching to satellite when needed, and returning to terrestrial networks when coverage improves.

Account for latency, bandwidth, and power constraints
Satellite networks behave differently from terrestrial networks. Applications should be designed to handle higher latency, optimize data transmission, and manage power consumption efficiently.

Plan for regulatory and operational complexity
Satellite deployments often span multiple regions with different regulatory requirements. Connectivity strategies should account for spectrum usage, data policies, and device compliance across markets.

Use Cases of Satellite IoT

Satellite IoT is most valuable in scenarios where terrestrial connectivity alone cannot meet coverage or reliability requirements. Common use cases include:

• Asset tracking: Monitoring assets across remote or cross-border routes
• Smart agriculture: Connecting sensors in rural farming environments
• Energy and utilities: Monitoring pipelines, grids, and remote infrastructure
• Maritime and logistics: Ensuring connectivity across oceans and remote supply chains
• Environmental monitoring: Collecting data in isolated or protected regions

In many deployments, satellite complements cellular connectivity rather than replacing it, ensuring devices remain connected when coverage is limited.

How Velocity IoT Supports Satellite Services

The latest 3GPP NTN standards allow us to extend coverage beyond the global cellular connectivity we already provide.

Our distributed infrastructure and local packet gateways support consistent performance and control across cellular networks, while satellite connectivity extends that same connectivity model into areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable.

This allows devices to transition between cellular and satellite networks using a single SIM and platform, without introducing additional complexity.

To learn more about how satellite connectivity works in practice, explore our knowledge base or connect with our team to discuss your deployment requirements.