The satellite industry has adopted two primary approaches to connecting smartphones to satellites using 5G. The first approach utilizes MSS (Mobile Satellite Service) spectrum, as seen with the Globalstar-Apple collaboration. The second approach employs low-band terrestrial spectrum, such as the PCS band, which is being implemented by SpaceX and planned by startups like Lynk Global and AST Spacemobile.
In an earlier post, I expressed my view that the second approach might face challenges due to regulatory and implementation issues that could result in complex systems with limited performance in terms of capacity and throughput. I argued that higher frequency bands in the spectrum could be more suitable for improving cost and performance. This perspective is now gaining traction, especially among traditional satellite companies that are preparing for Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) services within the 3GPP framework.
Consequently, the number of high-bands, including millimeter wave bands, designated by 3GPP for NTN is increasing, with the most recent development being the approval of the workplan to support the Ku band at the 3GPP meeting in Shanghai last June [Link]. Overall, while the current industry and regulatory focus remains on using MSS and terrestrial spectrum for NTN, the approach to leveraging satellite frequencies in the Ka and Ku bands for 5G/6G services is gradually advancing.
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