Viasat Demonstrates New Connectivity in UAE
United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, 11 December 2024.
Viasat’s direct-to-device technology demo in Abu Dhabi showcases its potential to enhance connectivity in underserved regions, marking a pivotal move in global satellite communication expansion.
Breakthrough Demonstration Details
On December 10, 2024, Viasat successfully conducted its direct-to-device (D2D) demonstration at the UAE’s Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority headquarters in Abu Dhabi [1]. The showcase, which took place during the Abu Dhabi Space Debate, represented Viasat’s third major D2D demonstration this quarter, following similar events in India and Saudi Arabia [1]. The test utilized Viasat’s I-6 F1 satellite to establish two-way messaging capabilities with a commercial Android smartphone [1], demonstrating compliance with new global mobile 3GPP release 17 standards for non-terrestrial network connectivity [1].
Technology Impact and Market Context
This demonstration comes at a crucial time as the satellite communication industry experiences significant expansion. The market currently features established players like SpaceX’s Starlink and Eutelsat/OneWeb, with upcoming entries from Amazon Kuiper and Telesat’s Lightspeed [2]. Kevin Cohen, VP of Direct to Device Partnerships at Viasat, emphasized the technology’s potential, stating, ‘In regions all over the world, millions of people do not have access to consistent, reliable networks. Satellite-enabled D2D could help reduce these barriers by allowing people to stay safe, secure, and connected when terrestrial services are interrupted or unavailable’ [1].
Regional Significance and Future Implications
The UAE demonstration holds particular significance as the region actively pursues advancement in space technology. Space 42, a recently merged Abu Dhabi-based entity, has announced plans to become a global player in satellite-based direct-to-device activity, projecting revenues of $7.1 billion by 2030 [2]. The successful demonstration aligns with growing regional interest in satellite technology, as evidenced by the UAE’s contemplation of its own LEO constellation [2]. This development suggests a potential shift in the global satellite communication landscape, with the Middle East emerging as a key player in future space technology initiatives.
Market Evolution and Consumer Impact
The demonstration’s timing coincides with evolving consumer behavior patterns, particularly in the UAE market. Recent studies indicate that digital connectivity is increasingly crucial, with younger generations showing strong adoption of digital services [5]. The successful implementation of D2D technology could significantly impact how consumers access digital services, particularly in areas with limited terrestrial infrastructure [1]. This advancement comes as mobile satellite services (MSS) players are transitioning from serving millions to potentially billions of customers directly through their smart devices [2].