Viasat, Inc. Joins 5GAA to Drive Connected Transport Applications
Viasat, Inc., a leading global provider of satellite communications, has recently announced its partnership with the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA). This collaboration brings together some of the world’s largest technology firms and automotive companies to advance connected transport applications, such as autonomous vehicles and predictive safety and maintenance.
5GAA serves as a cross-industry organization that aims to create a unified connectivity ecosystem for transportation through Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) technology. This innovative platform enables vehicles to communicate with their surroundings in real-time, including other vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians, road infrastructure, and mobile networks.
The implementation of C-V2X has the potential to revolutionize traffic management and supply chains, leading to improved travel experiences, reduced pollution, and enhanced road safety. Future applications being developed by 5GAA include support for fully autonomous vehicles, real-time supply chain tracking, safety systems for various road users, and predictive maintenance alerts to prevent breakdowns.
One key development driving the convergence of satellite and cellular technologies is 3GPP’s Release 17 standard. This standard outlines a method for devices, such as vehicles and industrial machinery, to connect to satellites without requiring dedicated satellite hardware. Known as direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, this technology is reshaping the delivery of satellite connectivity.
Viasat is actively working on building a D2D ecosystem involving chipset manufacturers, mobile network operators (MNOs), original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and solution providers. This ecosystem complements Viasat’s existing global Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) network, which is currently utilized for safety services in maritime and aviation industries.
With a focus on enabling global standards-based D2D connectivity, Viasat’s expertise in utilizing licensed mobile satellite spectrum positions them as a key player in the automotive industry. Potential applications of satellite connectivity in automotive settings include emergency calling services, breakdown assistance, and collision detection and avoidance systems.
By leveraging existing spectrum resources for mobile satellite services, Viasat offers a seamless integration of satellite connectivity into the automotive ecosystem without the need for additional terrestrial frequencies. This strategic approach ensures that mobile network operators can deliver enhanced services to their customers without compromising on network efficiency.
