FAQ

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Skylo?

Skylo is a Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) service provider, leading the industry in satellite and cellular convergence. Our network connects existing devices over existing satellites, functioning just like international roaming. Skylo's technology is built on top of the latest cellular industry standards (3GPP NTN) - so there is no need for separate modems or antennas, making satellite connectivity affordable and accessible for all.

How does the service work?

Our service presents a standard mobile network interface to a mobile device. We utilize a 3GPP standards-based approach in conjunction with a standard mobile core and our own NTN capable eNodeB / RAN. In addition, we have our own RAN development team. By controlling the entire stack, we are able to rapidly roll out new features for our customers. Lastly, we have an entire set of standards plus features that are specifically designed for a better customer experience and better device longevity when operating over satellite.

What are the current limitations?

We currently utilize the NB-NTN protocol. This means that any compatible device that utilizes this protocol is a candidate for NTN connectivity. Since we are focused on NB-NTN, we don’t currently support streaming services, such as voice, music or video.

What satellites do you connect to?

We partner with existing, established satellite companies with existing satellites across a range of spectrum bands (across the MSS L & S bands) that are compatible with cellular devices. We aren’t announcing our partners today, but will do so in the near term.

What is the difference between LEO and GEO satellites and why are you using GEO satellites?

Skylo’s service runs over any ‘bent-pipe’ satellite infrastructure, whether in GEO or in LEO. LEO satellites are much closer to the surface of the earth, but many more are required to cover the planet, and the antennas equipped on current LEO satellites might not be sufficient to allow for a predictable user experience when texting or sending data from small wearables or IoT devices. Additionally, connecting over LEO satellites introduces another variable of the satellite’s moving location relative to the user. On the other hand, existing GEO MSS satellites often have large (12 - 18 meter wide) reflectors, and a fixed point in the sky, making the links simpler and more robust. Skylo is also compatible with upcoming LEO satellites constellations, and ensures that devices are automatically connected across the best-in-class space segment at all times.

How much is the service?

We work with device makers and carriers on a wholesale basis, who in turn market their own retail plans. This allows our customers to provide a single bill for terrestrial + NTN services to their subscribers, or offer a direct NTN service.

What data rates does your service provide?

We offer a narrowband service - think of this like SMS or texting services. These aren’t measured in data rates, but rather sending across messages. These messages are typically 50 or 100 bytes packets and can contain information such as status, location, sensor data, or other short actions.

What kind of partnerships do you have with Inmarsat and others?

We have partnerships with multiple satellite operators globally. This allows us to work with the entire satellite ecosystem to ensure that we have the best coverage and capacity wherever our customers want service. We do not 'buy data' or airtime from our partners, but rather, we use their existing spectrum and satellites to run and operate our own network with Skylo equipment that is installed in our partner's Earth stations.

Where do the carriers come into the picture?

Some of our customers may not want to change their terrestrial cellular provider as their main & primary point of contact. This includes being offered a single invoice. So, by providing wholesale pricing and services to the carriers, they're able to provide a complete package of solutions to their end subscribers, and address the pain point of ubiquitous coverage from the same device that works across cellular and satellite.

Do you plan to work with other smartphones?

It’s our expectation that smartphone manufacturers are looking for ways to have deeper and longer lasting relationships with their customers. One such way is offering the NTN capability and potentially even the service. We also believe that in 3 - 4 years time, the vast majority of smartphone manufacturers will embed satellite connectivity into their platforms. So, inevitably, yes, we will work with other smartphone manufacturers.

What is your roadmap?

We believe that NTN connectivity is no different than the evolution of the terrestrial network, which started at 1G and is moving through 5G with enhanced functionality and usage. We are at that 1G phase of NTN at the moment, ensuring that we offer mobility of the most valuable data for our customers, understanding usage and behavior characteristics, and then moving to enhanced connectivity over time. We will leverage our learnings with next generation satellites and satellite architecture, which will allow for a best in class service to our customers.

Our locations

Visit our offices

Find us at these locations

New York

100 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 AU

New York

100 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 AU

New York

100 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 AU

New York

100 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 AU

New York

100 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 AU

New York

100 Flinders Street
Melbourne VIC 3000 AU

Want to learn more?

Feel free to check out our case studies, our newsroom, or get in touch with us below. For press / media inquiries, please contact us at press@skylo.tech

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