Deutsche Telekom Debuts Multi-Orbit IoT Roaming Across GEO and LEO
Deutsche Telekom says it has become the first mobile operator to enable IoT roaming across both geostationary (GEO) and low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, alongside terrestrial networks, allowing devices to automatically switch connectivity depending on coverage.
The system was demonstrated using a commercial NB-IoT device and integrates satellite services from partners including Skylo Technologies (GEO) and Sateliot and OQ Technology (LEO). The approach aims to deliver seamless global coverage, higher resilience, and greater flexibility for IoT deployments.
Deutsche Telekom said partner Iridium Communications will make its NTN Direct service available to business customers in the second half of 2026, further expanding the operator’s non-terrestrial footprint.
Use cases emerging from an early adopter program include remote infrastructure monitoring, maritime vessel tracking aligned with EU regulations, and AI-powered vision sensors designed to detect events such as forest fires in poorly connected regions.