What is Satellite IoT and How is it Applied?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of devices, sensors, and software that connect and transmit data with other ecosystems across the global Internet. IoT can improve performance in common household items and smart solutions for cities all the way to large industrial equipment and cold chain monitoring for fleet.

Satellite IoT is similar to the structure of IoT: it is essentially connecting IoT solutions via satellite solutions to enhance operation, increase efficiency, and maximise return on investment. According to a study published by Transparency Market Research, the satellite IoT market is projected to reach $6.14 billion by 2031. The rapid growth in this industry is due to the increased advancements in technologies during the past decade and into the foreseeable future.

Top Benefits and Use Cases in Satellite IoT

When networks cannot be connected via cellular – for example, at sea, in air, or in remote areas – satellite IoT connectivity provides solutions to enable these business necessities. Some top benefits of satellite IoT include:

• Lifecycle longevity: The lifecycle of satellite networks can be expected to last upwards of 20+ years, resulting in long-lasting connectivity.
• Connecting remote environments: Satellite IoT aids connectivity when cellular is unable to extend geographically to remote regions.
• Matures sustainable cities: With the ability of satellite IoT powering smart grids, smart cities are able to run more energy efficiently, creating sustainable solutions, even in remote locations.

Satellite IoT fits in use cases across many different verticals and is used when no other viable solutions exist in cellular connectivity, for example. Tim Last, VP and General Manager of Iridium, states some common applications for satellite IoT include:

• Cathodic protection for pipelines
• Remote monitoring for assets
• Over-the-road fleet management
• Off-road industrial equipment

Tim Last also notes that off-road industrial equipment is one of the largest growth areas for the satellite IoT market due to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) needing connectivity in new areas.

The Key to Deploying Satellite Solutions

It’s important to choose a satellite solution that is going to best enable the connectivity you’re seeking. That is why KORE partners with Iridium, one of the largest satellite IoT providers in the world today. Iridium is a market leader in this industry with nearly 20 years of proven experience, and has a reliable, real-time, global L-band network.

To learn further about satellite IoT and the solutions it has to offer, watch our quickfire interview with Kayleigh Thomas, KORE Director of Marketing, and Tim Last, Iridium VP and General Manager, “What is Satellite IoT and How is it Applied?”.