Smartphones Can Now Connect to Satellites... Skylo Accelerates Entry into the Korean Market

A service allowing standard smartphones to use satellite communication in areas without mobile network coverage is expanding its market presence in South Korea. The solution enables direct smartphone-to-satellite connections without specialized devices or external antennas, addressing communication blackspots. Skylo Technologies, a global non-terrestrial network (NTN) technology firm, unveiled its 'Direct-to-Device (D2D)' satellite connection technology and global business updates during a technical briefing in Seoul. Founded by engineers and scientists from MIT and Stanford, Skylo has secured investments from Samsung Catalyst Fund, Intel Capital, and BMW i Ventures, totaling $180 million. D2D technology allows smartphones to communicate directly with satellites in areas without terrestrial base stations, using chips and devices compatible with mobile communication standards. The company supports connections between satellite operators, mobile carriers, chipmakers, and device manufacturers based on 3GPP standards. Its technology applies to smartphones, smartwatches, vehicles, and IoT devices, leveraging existing SIM cards and devices. Co-founder and Chief Business Officer Tarun Gupta emphasized that satellite networks will complement rather than replace terrestrial networks, enabling communication in challenging environments like mountainous regions, maritime areas, and highways. Gupta noted that satellite communication provides the first connection signal in remote areas, serving as a critical tool for emergency rescue scenarios. Skylo's technology supports geostationary, medium-orbit, and low-orbit satellite communications, with current commercial services centered on geostationary satellites. The company can expand its service without new satellite launches or extensive ground infrastructure, as it connects existing satellites with legacy devices. Skylo operates commercial satellite connectivity services in 37 countries across five continents and has connected approximately 7 million devices as of June 2025.