On January 28, 2026, Vodafone IoT and Skylo Technologies announced a strategic partnership to integrate satellite-based Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) NB-IoT connectivity into Vodafone’s global IoT ecosystem.
The collaboration aims to provide “anywhere connectivity” by allowing IoT devices to switch seamlessly between terrestrial cellular networks and Skylo’s satellite overlay using a single Vodafone SIM.
Seamless Switching via Single SIM Integration
The partnership focuses on a hybrid connectivity model that eliminates traditional coverage gaps in remote or underserved regions. By integrating their network cores, the two companies enable devices to automatically transition to satellite links when cellular signals are unavailable.
- 3GPP Standards: The service utilizes the 3GPP Release 17 NB-NTN waveform, allowing it to work with standard IoT hardware and chipsets without requiring specialized satellite dishes or expensive hardware modifications.
- Unified Management: Customers can manage their entire fleet—whether on cellular or satellite—through the existing Vodafone IoT Managed Connectivity Platform, providing a single interface for global estate management.
Rationale: Bridging the Digital Divide for Industry
The move addresses a critical bottleneck for industries operating in “dark zones” where terrestrial masts are impractical or non-existent.
- Asset Tracking & Logistics: Ensures continuous monitoring of high-value goods as they move across international borders and through remote territories.
- Agriculture & Energy: Provides real-time data from isolated sensors in smart farms, wind farms, and remote utility grids for predictive maintenance and resource optimization.
- Environmental Monitoring: Enables long-term, battery-powered sensors to report on wildfires, floods, or gas leaks from deep wilderness or oceanic locations.
“Our partnership with Skylo will help us deliver ubiquitous connectivity for our customers and make a step-change in network access, reliability, and resilience,” stated Erik Brenneis, CEO of Vodafone IoT.
Global Footprint and Commercial Roadmap
Skylo’s network currently spans 36 countries and covers approximately 70 million square kilometers. The initial phase of the partnership involves rigorous technology trials to validate performance across diverse geographies. Following a successful trial period, the partners intend to roll out a full commercial service, significantly expanding Vodafone’s reach, which already supports over 220 million IoT connections worldwide.
