MediaTek already confirmed that it will launch Bullitt phone with smartphone to include a two-way satellite messaging capability. Today, the company has introduced MT6825 chipset for world’s first commercially available devices from Bullitt with 3GPP NTN technology.
The devices with the chip includes the motorola defy 2 and CAT S75 smartphones; and the motorola defy satellite link, a compact and lightweight Bluetooth accessory that allows Android and iOS devices to connect to the Bullitt Satellite Connect platform.
This Bullitt Satellite Connect service will provide users with access to two-way satellite messaging, location sharing, and emergency SOS in more places around the world.
MediaTek said that its IoT-NTN solutions are standalone chipsets that can be added to any 4G or 5G device. It uses the open 3GPP R17 NTN standard, unlike competing solutions which are based on proprietary solutions, so once a device has been certified, it can be used on any IoT-NTN compliant network, said the company.
Additionally, mobile network operators can partner with service providers to offer roaming services or establish their own satellite networks that support the standard.
Features of MT6825
- Lets you connect to Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit (GEO) constellations, which could be converted into 3GPP NTN compliant network easily and are widely available now on the orbit.
- Allows devices to automatically receive messages from satellites, unlike competitive solutions that require users to manually check for messages.
- The chipset has low system requirements, is very power efficient to provide greater battery life, and comes in a highly integrated design that helps accelerate time to market.
Availability
MediaTek said that it will be demonstrating its innovative 3GPP Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) technology in the chip at the MWC 2023 from Feb. 27 through March 2, 2023 at MediaTek’s booth in Hall 3, Stand 3D10.
The company said more devices will be unveiled in the coming months. We should know the availability of the devices at next week.
Additionally, MediaTek will also be sharing a sneak peek of its next-generation 5G New Radio NTN (NR-NTN) technology for the next wave of satellite-enabled devices.
Commenting on the new chip, JC Hsu, Corporate Vice President and General Manager of MediaTek’s wireless communications business unit, said:
Two-way satellite communications on smartphones and other devices will usher us into a new era of connectivity and open up new possibilities across many different verticals. Our standalone MT6825 chipsets, which are based on the 3GPP NTN open standard, can be integrated into any flagship smartphone to deliver a seamless satellite connectivity experience.