Mavenir, a cloud-native network infrastructure provider and Terrestar Solutions, Canada’s premier mobile satellite operator have completed the first Voice over NB-IoT (VoNB) call in Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) mode. The call was conducted over a 3GPP-standardized NTN S-band spectrum, which helps avoid interference issues typically seen in terrestrial networks. This achievement demonstrates a major step forward in merging satellite and terrestrial communications.
The call, carried out in January 2025 utilized standard codec technology alongside Sony’s Altair ALT1250 module. Key network components included Mavenir’s Open RAN (Open vRAN and Open Beam radio) and its Converged Packet Core. Designed to also support GEO satellite operations, the system provides consistent coverage despite higher latency. This technical setup enables GEO operators to immediately monetize NTN services with a straightforward software upgrade to existing infrastructures, broadening the range of applications for IoT connectivity.
Jacques Leduc, President of Terrestar Solutions stated that the breakthrough positions Terrestar as the first MSS player to offer a real-time voice service on a fully compliant 3GPP NTN network. He emphasized the importance of using dedicated S-band spectrum and an open network architecture. Sachin Karkala, SVP & GM of Mavenir’s RAN Business Unit added that satellite services enhance terrestrial networks by providing additional coverage especially in remote and underserved regions. Their comments underscore a clear industry focus on integrating advanced satellite solutions with conventional network systems.
This successful VoNB call paves the way for broader adoption of NTN-based NB-IoT solutions and further integration of voice services into IoT ecosystems. Both companies are committed to advancing standards-based, open network ecosystems that deliver secure and reliable connectivity, reinforcing their roles as industry pioneers in next-generation communications.
