$AAPL,
$ASTS,
$VOD,
$VSAT,
$SONY, Thuraya and NTN_Solutions/Comv are involved in the work to enable ETSI requirements for NTN (Non-Terrestrial Network) NR/IoT/S bands (L- and S-band spectrum) and are focusing on standardization and the technical requirements for integrating satellite communications into the existing mobile network.
Why is this submission "bullish"?
1. Standardization and global availability: The focus is on defining and incorporating the relevant bands into the 3GPP specifications. A key objective was the standardization of global MSS (Mobile Satellite Service) bands so they can be activated in ETSI regions. Standardization allows satellite service providers to offer mobile satellite services (MSS) in ETSI regions using 3GPP specifications. This facilitates international deployment and use.
2. Introduction of New NTN Bands: The extensive discussion in Rel-17 included the introduction of two NTN bands: the L-band and the S-band, which were added to bands 255 and 62N. The establishment of these bands supports the development and deployment of Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) services (satellite communications), representing a new and growing market.
3. Regulatory Clarity: Ongoing work, such as the RAN WG4 discussions on further clarifying minimum requirements and addressing the updated ETSI requirements, is creating the necessary regulatory and technical foundation for the commercial use of these spectrums.
Conclusion: The fact that large telecommunications companies (e.g., Vodafone, Apple, Sony) and specialized satellite companies (e.g., Viasat,
@AST_SpaceMobile) are collaborating to harmonize global specifications for mobile satellite services and enable their deployment indicates significant market potential and growth in this sector, forming the basis for a bullish market outlook. A partnership between
$AAPL and
$ASTS is not out of the question.