Secures $30M Oversubscribed Funding for Expanding Global Reach of Direct-to-Device satellite Service (Skylo)
### Title: Skylo Expands Global Footprint, Leading the Way in Satellite Connectivity
In the rapidly evolving world of Internet of Things (IoT) and communication technology, Skylo, a pioneering company based in Mountain View, California, is making significant strides. Founded in 2017, Skylo has been at the forefront of providing non-terrestrial network (NTN) services, enabling direct-to-device satellite connectivity for various sectors such as maritime, energy, and construction.
Recently, Skylo has expanded its presence in Asia, forging key partnerships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to leverage its satellite connectivity services [1][2]. One such collaboration is with Murata, resulting in the development of the Murata 1SC module, which allows devices to toggle between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, simplifying NTN device development [3][4].
Skylo's services are now available on Tier-1 smartphones and partner carriers, making satellite connectivity more accessible than ever. The company has also secured a $30 million funding round, led by NGP Capital, with participation from Westly Group, Intel Capital, BMW i Ventures, Samsung Catalyst Fund, Next47, and others [5].
The need for reliable connectivity is more pressing than ever, with 85% of the planet still lacking reliable cellular coverage [6]. Skylo's network aims to solve this challenge by working natively with existing chipsets and providing coverage in remote areas where cell towers do not exist. This has proven crucial during natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires in the United States, with Skylo-enabled smartphones playing a role in facilitating dozens of users to request help when terrestrial networks were unavailable [7].
Skylo's growth is attributed to the depth of its 'standards-plus' technology stack that democratises access to ubiquitous mobile connectivity. The company's non-terrestrial network has facilitated millions of messages worldwide, making it the world's largest standards-based direct-to-device network [8].
Skylo will demonstrate SOS over satellite, SMS over satellite, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) chat over satellite at MWC Barcelona 2025. The demonstration will take place in the GSMA Pavilion in Hall 4 Stand 4F30 from March 3 - 6, 2025 [9].
In terms of geographic coverage, Skylo currently operates in 37 countries, including the recent addition of Iceland. This makes it the largest mobile network operator in terms of geographic coverage [1]. Skylo's services have been integrated into the Google Pixel 9 series, offering a satellite SOS feature in the U.S., further expanding its impact on emergency services [4].
As Skylo continues to grow globally, it is actively expanding its presence in Asia, a strategic move to enhance its market availability and partnerships in the region [1]. The company has also demonstrated its commitment to ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices by certifying the Samsung Exynos 2500 [1].
Skylo's use of existing, globally allocated frequency bands allows for expansive, commercially available services without the regulatory hurdles faced by competitors [1]. Skylo is recognized for offering the most stable and reliable satellite D2D services, as highlighted in an upcoming report by Analysys Mason [1].
In conclusion, Skylo is leading the way in the satellite connectivity market, expanding its global footprint through strategic partnerships and technological advancements. Its focus on Asia and device compatibility is set to further enhance its market presence, providing critical connectivity across five continents for IoT and consumer devices.
For more updates and discussions on this topic, follow @IoTNow_ on Twitter.
References: [1] Skylo Press Release, [2] Skylo Website, [3] Murata Press Release, [4] Google Press Release, [5] Funding Round Announcement, [6] Skylo Whitepaper, [7] Disaster Response Case Study, [8] Network Coverage Statistics, [9] MWC Barcelona 2025 Schedule.
In the rapidly advancing realms of data-and-cloud-computing, technology, industry, finance, and energy, Skylo's expansion into Asia signifies a strategic move to leverage satellite connectivity services, partnering with OEMs and MNOs to boost its market presence and foster IoT, energy, and construction sector growth. Skylo's successful demonstrations of SOS, SMS, and AI chat over satellite, set for MWC Barcelona 2025, exemplify its leadership in the satellite connectivity industry.
){kind=link}