Iridium NTN Direct
Service that lets ordinary cellular IoT chips and devices send data and messages through Iridium's satellites using the 3GPP non-terrestrial network standard, with no separate satellite modem.
Why it matters
Many satellite-to-phone and IoT services borrow mobile carriers' cellular spectrum or cover only some regions. Iridium uses its own globally coordinated L-band spectrum, so chipmakers can build satellite coverage into standard parts sold anywhere, including at the poles.
How the technology works
Chipmakers such as Altair add Iridium NTN Direct support to their cellular IoT chips, so one chip handles both cell towers and Iridium's LEO satellites. Mobile operators such as Deutsche Telekom IoT can then roam customers onto the satellite network when there is no tower in reach.
Commercial availability is expected in Q4 2026.
Sources
Updated Oct 22, 2026 · How we source facts · Suggest a correction