# Verizon and Skylo Collaborate to Introduce Commercial Satellite-Based Communication Service
In a time when connectivity is crucial, Verizon is making a major advancement by launching a commercial satellite-based communication service for its users. This innovative service, scheduled to debut “this fall,” stems from a strategic alliance between Verizon and Skylo, a firm recognized for its satellite communication technology prowess. The partnership aims to deliver direct-to-device satellite texting services, ensuring users stay connected even in regions where conventional cellular networks are absent.
## Essential Information
– **Collaboration with Skylo**: Verizon has joined forces with Skylo to provide satellite texting services to its clientele. Skylo’s satellite infrastructure is the same utilized by Google for its Pixel 9 series, which includes satellite SOS functions.
– **Service Launch**: The service is anticipated to be accessible on “certain smartphones,” although Verizon has yet to detail which devices will support this feature. It will enable satellite roaming capabilities whenever Verizon’s cellular network becomes unavailable.
– **Target Demographics**: While the service will be open to everyday consumers, Verizon is also concentrating on enterprise clients, especially in fields like agriculture, transportation, and maritime.
## A Groundbreaking Venture
Verizon’s announcement signifies the commencement of a “first-of-its-kind” trial for satellite IoT (Internet of Things) services. This initiative is tailored to deliver satellite communication to commercial users, providing a dependable alternative when traditional cellular networks are inaccessible. As stated by Srini Kalapala, Senior Vice President of Technology and Product Development at Verizon, the company is “optimistic about the advancements in satellite-to-device communications for consumers” and is thrilled to lead in the advancement of satellite IoT solutions.
## The Impact of Skylo
Skylo’s mobile satellite spectrum is pivotal to this new offering. The technology is engineered to eliminate network interference from terrestrial signals, guaranteeing a stable connection for users needing to send text messages via satellite. This reliability is crucial for individuals in rural settings or areas where cellular signals are weak or absent.
## Emergency Messaging and Location Sharing
A standout feature of Verizon’s new service is its capability to facilitate emergency messaging and location sharing when the cellular network is compromised. This functionality could be transformative for those in isolated regions or during natural disasters when conventional communication channels may fail. Users will have the ability to send and receive messages and share their location, even outside of Verizon’s cellular network coverage.
## Enterprise Opportunities: Satellite IoT Roaming
While the service is aimed at regular consumers, Verizon is also directing its “satellite IoT roaming” capabilities toward enterprise users. This service could prove especially advantageous for sectors like agriculture, transportation, and maritime. Companies might leverage the service to track animal movements, monitor soil health, and assess crops, ensuring they have real-time data even in remote areas.
## The Connection to Google Pixel 9
Notably, Verizon is employing the same global satellite network that Google uses for its Pixel 9 series in this announcement. Through Satellite SOS, the Pixel 9 series utilizes Skylo’s technology to transmit, receive, and manage a user’s SOS functions from their device to a satellite. This data is subsequently forwarded to Garmin’s 24/7 Response Team for help. Google has recently unveiled Satellite SOS on its Pixel 9 series, featuring a demo option that enables users to simulate an emergency scenario and connect to a satellite.
## Conclusion
Verizon’s collaboration with Skylo to introduce satellite-based communication services to its users represents a significant milestone in the landscape of connectivity. By providing a trustworthy alternative to traditional cellular networks, Verizon is ensuring that its customers can remain connected regardless of their location. Whether for emergency messaging, location sharing, or enterprise solutions, this new service holds the potential to transform our approach to communication in isolated locations. As the service launches later this fall, it will be intriguing to see which devices will support this feature and how it will be embraced by both consumers and enterprise clients.
