The startup Ubiquitilink has developed a system that allows conventional smartphones to receive signals from space. The goal of the company is to provide network coverage to almost the entire planet.
The satellite phone communication already exists, but to be able to benefit from it, it is necessary to have a specific device. The problem is that this type of phone is usually expensive and cumbersome. At the last MWC , the startup Ubiquitilink presented a technology that could change the game.
Indeed, according to the company, most current smartphones actually have the ability to communicate with satellites. But to activate this ability , it requires some software adjustments. Because recent phones take into account the current functioning of mobile networks, assuming that relay antennas can not be located more than 30 km from the device. By making the necessary changes, Ubiquitilink proved that it was possible to connect via a satellite signal (in 2G).
Nevertheless, for communication to take place, some criteria must be respected, particularly as regards the radio frequency band and the wavelength used. In addition, the satellites must below orbit , that is to say about 500 km above the surface of the Earth.
The company intends to play a major role in roaming with mobile operators, but also offer the opportunity for billions of individuals to contact an emergency service for free, wherever they are. This will require at least 1,000 satellites in low orbit.
The satellite phone communication already exists, but to be able to benefit from it, it is necessary to have a specific device. The problem is that this type of phone is usually expensive and cumbersome. At the last MWC , the startup Ubiquitilink presented a technology that could change the game.
Satellites relaying relay antennas
Nevertheless, for communication to take place, some criteria must be respected, particularly as regards the radio frequency band and the wavelength used. In addition, the satellites must below orbit , that is to say about 500 km above the surface of the Earth.
Provide billions of people in mobile network
Ubiquitilink's goal is to use spacecraft to improve network coverage on our planet. Because according to the society, today, only 25% of the lands are covered by relay antennas. This leaves billions of people without the ability to communicate, even in emergencies.The company intends to play a major role in roaming with mobile operators, but also offer the opportunity for billions of individuals to contact an emergency service for free, wherever they are. This will require at least 1,000 satellites in low orbit.