By Catherine Sbeglia Nin
Ericsson, Qualcomm and French aerospace company Thales announced a collaboration to test and develop 5G connectivity using low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations. The companies said that in order to determine the feasibility of such an endeavor, they have conducted a series of studies and simulations, and now, are prepared to begin smartphone use case testing and validation of the 5G non-terrestrial networks (5G NTN).
According to Ericsson, such a project could lead to “global coverage for wideband data” when using a 5G smartphone. Because 5G connectivity delivered by low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is expected to provide coverage in extreme geographies or remote areas, such as seas and waterways where terrestrial coverage is absent, 5G smartphones, for the first time, may be capable of connectivity in locations previously only connected via legacy satellite systems.
“This testing and validation cooperation between Ericsson, Thales and Qualcomm Technologies will be a major milestone in the history of communications as the ultimate result could effectively mean that no matter where you are on Earth – in the middle of an ocean or the remotest forest – high-end, secure and cost-effective connectivity will be available through collaborative 5G satellite and terrestrial connectivity,” commented senior vice president and chief technology officer, Ericsson, Erik Ekudden.
The potential for widespread connectivity would boost 5G smartphone subscriber roaming service capabilities, stated Ericsson, as well as enabling global connectivity for transportation, energy and health sector 5G use cases. Further, in the event of major network outages or disasters, the non-terrestrial network could also be used as back-up support.
“The deployment of 5G networks marks a step change for the telecoms industry. It is a game changer, not only in terms of business opportunities but also in the skills required to connect and protect billions of people and things,” said executive vice-president or Strategy, Research and Technology, Thales, Philippe Keryer. “The research collaboration with Ericsson and Qualcomm Technologies will demonstrate the belief of our companies that 5G non-terrestrial Networks will contribute to this revolution and will take network resiliency and security to the next level.
