Skylo Launches Satellite NB-IoT Service With Vodafone
Vodafone IoT customers can now use a standards-based satellite connectivity service that switches automatically from cellular networks without requiring satellite hardware.
Updated on Nov. 9, 2026 in Telecommunications
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Skylo has launched a commercial standards-based NB-IoT satellite service for Vodafone IoT customers, following trials in the UK, Spain, Italy and Canada. Devices switch between cellular and satellite networks using a Vodafone standard global SIM.
Why it matters
The service is intended to reduce coverage blackspots without requiring satellite hardware or complex multi-vendor management. Vodafone IoT and Skylo integrated their network cores to enable seamless switching between the two networks.
The hybrid service runs on 3GPP standards and is managed through Vodafone IoT's Managed Connectivity Platform, which connects over 240 million devices worldwide. Specific coverage, latency and pricing figures for the commercial service were not disclosed.
The players
Vodafone IoT
Vodafone IoT is the Internet of Things division of the global telecommunications company Vodafone, which manages connectivity for hundreds of millions of devices.
Skylo
Skylo is a satellite connectivity company whose network is built on 3GPP standards and integrates with existing cellular networks and SIM-based services.
The details
Trial use cases included monitoring remote storage tanks and micro mobility and e-bikes with customers across the UK, Spain, Italy and Canada. The service requires no satellite hardware, and devices switch between cellular and satellite networks on their own.
Timeline
November 9, 2026: Commercial launch of the Skylo NB-IoT satellite service announced.
The Tech Race
The launch builds on the 3GPP NB-IoT standard by extending it into satellite networks, letting operators avoid proprietary satellite hardware. It positions Vodafone IoT and Skylo to compete for IoT connectivity in sectors where cellular coverage is patchy.
Businesses running asset tracking, logistics, agriculture, mining or remote energy sites may gain connectivity where cellular coverage is missing. The service removes the need for separate satellite hardware, which can simplify deployment for IoT device makers.
The takeaway
Organizations with IoT deployments in remote areas should check whether hybrid cellular-satellite connectivity can replace separate satellite hardware. Device makers should confirm their SIMs and modules support 3GPP NB-IoT before planning rollouts.
Further reading
Explore more Telecommunications coverage for context on how satellite and cellular networks are converging.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Advanced-television.
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