This agreement broadens TerreStar’s existing development opportunities for advanced technologies and protocols that combine the ubiquity of a North American satellite footprint with the connectivity of terrestrial wireless networks across an all-IP broadband communications platform. Under the agreement, Qualcomm will integrate satellite and cellular communications technology by developing a satellite protocol and including it in the firmware of select upcoming Qualcomm multi-mode baseband chips. Qualcomm also will support the S-band frequencies — where TerreStar will operate — in select RF processors. As a result, satellite connectivity can be enabled in conventional-sized, mass-market wireless handsets and devices. The same mobile chipsets forming the heart of handsets and other devices will enable handset vendors to produce satellite-capable devices at comparable scale and cost. The agreement follows Qualcomm’s previous agreements with other MSS providers, including SkyTerra (formerly MSV) and ICO Global Communications.
