Syniverse and Skylo Technologies have joined forces to enable mobile network operators (MNOs) to integrate two-way SMS messaging over satellite. The partnership marks a significant milestone in expanding satellite connectivity beyond emergency services, offering Verizon customers the ability to send and receive text messages in areas with no cellular coverage. This breakthrough was announced in Tampa, Florida, and the service is currently available on select Verizon devices. Background and Implementation Key Characters: Andrew Davies: CEO of Syniverse Jerome Baccelli: VP Engineering & Operations at Skylo Technologies Verizon: One of the leading mobile network operators in the United States Cause: The primary motivation behind this collaboration is to address the limitations of cellular coverage in remote and rural areas. Despite the increasing reliance on mobile communication, many regions still lack reliable cellular signals, leaving individuals and businesses disconnected. Satellite communication offers a robust alternative, but integrating it with existing terrestrial networks has been a complex challenge. Passage: Skylo Technologies has pioneered the use of dedicated, licensed Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) spectrum within globally allocated frequency bands to provide satellite connectivity and texting services. Unlike traditional approaches that require MNOs to share their valuable spectrum assets, Skylo's method ensures continuous and contiguous coverage in underserved areas without causing network interference. Syniverse, known for its expertise in secure, global communication technologies, provides the Evolved Mobility for Messaging solution. This platform uses the same Diameter Protocol that MNOs are familiar with from their terrestrial networks, ensuring seamless integration and compatible signaling. Additionally, Evolved Mobility for Messaging can be deployed in the cloud, allowing for easy scalability and consistent service levels. The collaboration between Skylo and Syniverse started in 2024 with the introduction of emergency messaging and location sharing for Verizon customers. Building on this success, they have now extended the capabilities to include native SMS over satellite. This extension means that users can send and receive texts just as they would on a regular mobile network, without any need for additional apps or changes to their devices. Result: The implementation of SMS over satellite for Verizon represents a major step forward in extending communication services to regions with limited or no cellular coverage. By leveraging existing infrastructure and familiar protocols, the solution promises to enhance the reliability and reach of messaging services, providing users with peace of mind and continuous connectivity. Industry Insights and Evaluations Industry insiders have praised the Skylo-Syniverse collaboration for its potential to revolutionize mobile communication in remote areas. The use of dedicated MSS spectrum and the Diameter Protocol ensures minimal disruption and maximum compatibility, making it easier for other MNOs to adopt similar solutions. This could lead to broader adoption and integration of satellite messaging services, further closing the gap in global connectivity. Company Profiles Skylo Technologies: Headquartered in Mountain View, California, Skylo Technologies is a leading Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) service provider. They specialize in integrating existing satellites with mobile and IoT cellular devices to offer direct-to-device connectivity. Skylo's commercial NTN virtual Radio Access Network (vRAN) is designed according to 3GPP standards, providing a cloud-native base station and core. Their services cater to various critical industries, including agriculture, maritime, logistics, and mining, as well as consumer devices. Visit www.skylo.tech for more information. Syniverse: Syniverse, based in Tampa, Florida, is renowned as the world's most connected company. They secure global technology that connects networks, devices, and people, powering leading carriers and top global companies. Syniverse's engagement platform aims to enhance communication experiences and relationships. With over 30 years of experience, they continue to drive advancements in communication technology, including 5G, CPaaS, IoT, and more. Learn more at https://www.syniverse.com/. This collaboration marks a significant advancement in the field of satellite communications, offering practical solutions to connectivity issues that have long plagued remote and rural regions.