According to the latest report by the Global Supplier Association (GSA) released in April, as of the end of March 2024, 77 publicly announced partnerships between operators and satellite vendors have been identified in 43 countries and territories.
The report titled "Non-Terrestrial 5G
Networks and Satellite Connectivity" noted that in total, 50 operators in
37 countries and territories have planned satellite service, with nine operators
in nine countries and territories currently evaluating, testing or trailing
these.
“Now, 10 operators
in 10 countries and territories have commercially launch satellite services,
growing by two operators since the previous update in August 2023,” it disclosed.
Although
the report acknowledged the speedy prominence satellites is gaining in the
world of cellular communication, it observed that the full extent of their
potential to complement terrestrial networks as well as phone services and
broadband is still unclear.
“Alongside this, the cost for satellite service plans tend to be
higher because of the need to purchase expensive equipment and terminals.
Although uses for satellite are currently limited, this evolving industry is
taking its first step toward long-term growth, similarly to be evolution of
terrestrial networks.’
The latest insights from the Global mobile
Suppliers Association (GSA) indicate the accelerating momentum behind
Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) and satellite technology, heralding a new era of
connectivity and communication.
In an
increasingly interconnected world, access to reliable and high-speed internet
has become a fundamental necessity. However, traditional terrestrial networks
face inherent limitations, particularly in reaching remote and underserved
areas.
By
leveraging satellite networks, operators can extend their reach beyond the
confines of terrestrial infrastructure, reaching even the most remote corners
of the globe. This not only enhances the availability of phone services and
broadband but also lays the groundwork for unlocking new opportunities in areas
such as e-commerce, e-learning, telemedicine, and agriculture.
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
