The firms hope their network will allow smartphones to access a 5G connection almost anywhere on Earth and provide complete global coverage for wideband data services, including places normally only covered by legacy satellite phone systems with limited data-connectivity capabilities.
The benefits of 5G connectivity via low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites are expected to include coverage in extreme geographies or remote areas across seas, oceans and other locations where terrestrial coverage is absent.
It is envisaged that the widespread connectivity will boost 5G smartphone subscriber roaming service capabilities, as well as enabling global connectivity for transportation, energy and health sector 5G use cases.
The space-based network could also be used as back-up support for terrestrial networks in the event of major outages or disasters.
The expected security capabilities of the space-based 5G network mean that national government communications could...