Viasat, a global leader in satellite communications, announced it has successfully demonstrated direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity in Saudi Arabia for the first time, in conjunction with its ecosystem partners. Viasat successfully sent satellite-enabled two-way messages and SoS messages to attendees at this week's 'Connecting the World from the Skies' event, which was hosted by the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in Riyadh.

The tests used a commercial Android smartphone enabled for non-terrestrial network (NTN) connectivity with the Bullitt over-the-top messaging application. The messages were sent over the company's highly reliable L-band spacecraft which orbits above the Indian Ocean and were enabled by 3GPP standards-based NTN service infrastructure installed in Viasat's gateways by Skylo, a Viasat ecosystem partner.

D2D is an emerging technology that allows everyday devices – like mobile phones, cars, or industrial machinery to connect seamlessly to both terrestrial and satellite connectivity without the need for additional dedicated hardware. The technology follows new global mobile 3GPP release 17 standards, which are being adopted by satellite operators, mobile network operators, handset and chipset manufacturers.

Viasat's direct-to-device demonstration in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The demonstration was enabled by Viasat's highly reliable L-band satellite capabilities, with the tests showing satellite-to-cell phone connectivity feasibility across the region. Importantly, the company's approach of using already-licensed and dedicated satellite spectrum will enable it to work with mobile network operators to provide these services in the future without sacrificing or interfering with any terrestrial spectrum.

Sandeep Moorthy, Chief Technical Officer, Viasat, said: "By expanding our direct-to-device innovation to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, we're showcasing the potential for D2D services in the fast-growing Gulf and Asia-Pacific region. D2D could help reduce barriers to connectivity in regions where terrestrial services are spotty and unavailable to help transform industries and supply chains, enable new opportunities, and become more efficient, sustainable, and safer. We'd like to thank the CST for their support in carrying out this exciting demonstration."

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