Luxembourg-based satellite communications company OQ Technology has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with O2 Telefónica on global IoT satellite connectivity.

Starting in Q2 2024, O2 Telefónica will roll out global 5G roaming, enabling NB-IoT deployment worldwide. This collaboration empowers businesses with reliable IoT services, even in previously inaccessible areas.

OQ Technology’s satellite network integrates seamlessly with Telefónica IPX cloud and Kite IoT connectivity management platform, offering businesses real-time SIM card monitoring and control globally.

In collaboration with OQ Technology, O2 Telefónica will offer a hybrid mobile satellite connectivity service, providing global IoT network coverage. The service data are transmitted securely to users, requiring only a service-level agreement with O2 Telefónica.

Omar Qaise, CEO of OQ Technology, expressed delight at the Telefónica partnership, saying it marked a historic milestone that enabled O2 Telefónica users to access 5G IoT roaming services globally.

Nikolaos Kalivianakis, director of business at O2 Telefónica (iot.telefonica.de), said the collaboration had potential to enhance efficiency and productivity through OQ Technology’s global coverage and satellite-based IoT connectivity.

Satellite connectivity unlocks IoT applications in areas where terrestrial networks face limitations. This includes connecting stationary IoT devices such as agriculture sensors in remote areas and facilitating IoT applications across the world’s oceans.

In early 2024, Telefónica’s Kite platform will introduce IoT Data Ready, simplifying NB-IoT data processing and acting as a bridge to traditional IT systems.

OQ Technology (www.oqtec.com) is a 5G NTN IoT LEO satellite operator. The company has deployed NB-IoT connectivity via LEO satellites and is establishing a global constellation catering to mobile operators and clients in sectors such as energy, mining, logistics, maritime and agriculture. The company’s patented technology leverages the use of standard 3GPP technology, connecting billions of users globally and using both terrestrial and satellite networks.