Inmarsat extends IoT solutions through partnership

Connectivity from their individual constellations will be used to provide next-generation IoT satellite services, telematics devices and end-to-end solutions. These provide high bandwidth data packets with low-cost terminals for industries requiring remote asset and equipment monitoring.

Orbcomm and Inmarsat’s agreement will extend their strategic partnership through at least to 2035.

Together they have developed OGx services with data rates that are 40-times faster than the current IsatData Pro (IDP) service to enable larger messages and faster transmission from IoT networks.

Both partners expect OGx services to be available in 2022, enabling service providers to build their own offerings.

These services will be supported by Inmarsat’s L-band constellations. IDP services currently use the I-4 constellation and will incorporate Inmarsat’s sixth generation (I-6) constellation once that is commissioned.

Inmarsat will also distribute Orbcomm’s portfolio of OGx telematics devices globally through its sales channels, targeting original equipment manufacturers and value-added resellers. Orbcomm provides IoT telematics through its own constellation of satellites, which also provide vessel tracking services using the Automatic Identification System (AIS) messages.

IoT solutions will include global wireless connectivity, hardware and advanced, cloud-based reporting and analytics platforms in multiple vertical markets.

Inmarsat and Orbcomm will develop small terminals with minimal battery power for remote monitoring and environmental sensing applications.

“Through our enduring strategic partnership with Orbcomm, we are seeing an extensive global market opportunity for our L-band IoT services, which enable increased business value to industries with remote operations,” said Inmarsat chief executive Rupert Pearce.

“As the digital world continues to evolve, together we will play a pivotal role in providing network connectivity and IoT solutions that will enable nearly every type of industrial asset to be smart and remotely connected.” Inmarsat provides IoT services to shipping through its Fleet Data service.

Orbcomm chief executive Marc Eisenberg expects high demand for the higher data rates and power-efficient OGx services and terminals. “We will continue to leverage our synergies and innovation in collaboration with Inmarsat to deliver IoT products, services and solutions to an even broader customer base around the world,” he said.