China’s Ministry of Industry and Data Technology (MIIT) has begun a two-year commercial trial of satellite Internet of Things (IoT) services, a move signaling a notable expansion of the nation’s interaction infrastructure.the program aims to connect underserved areas and fuel growth in emerging sectors like commercial aerospace and the “low-altitude economy,” including drone applications and remote sensing. With china’s major telecom operators already licensed to provide satellite mobile communication, this initiative represents a key step toward realizing the country’s vision of ubiquitous connectivity and a fully integrated “Internet of Everything.”
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has launched a two-year commercial trial of satellite Internet of Things (IoT) services, aiming to expand the country’s communication market and foster growth in emerging industries like commercial aerospace and the “low-altitude economy.” The move signals a broader push to connect devices in areas currently underserved by traditional terrestrial networks.
The trial program seeks to invigorate the market, enhance industry capabilities, and establish a secure regulatory framework for these developing sectors. Experts say the initiative is crucial for extending connectivity to remote regions, and enabling new applications across various industries.
What is Satellite IoT?
Satellite IoT utilizes satellite communication technology to connect a vast number of IoT devices on land, at sea, and in the air, providing data collection and transmission services. This technology offers wide-area connectivity for devices, vehicles, and equipment in sectors like ocean fisheries, transportation logistics, energy, water resources, emergency communications, and the burgeoning low-altitude economy, as well as industrial internet applications.
“Traditional IoT relies on ground-based networks, which have limitations in coverage, particularly in remote areas, the skies, and over the oceans,” explained Yu Xiaohui, President of the China Information and Communication Research Institute. “Satellite IoT’s key advantage is its ubiquitous coverage.”
How Will Satellite IoT Impact Commercial Aviation and the Low-Altitude Economy?
The new satellite infrastructure is expected to address critical communication gaps in the low-altitude economy, particularly for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Previously, limited ground-based station coverage could lead to signal interruptions, impacting flight safety and efficiency. Satellite IoT, leveraging a space-based network, provides real-time tracking and data transmission for low-altitude aircraft globally.
The technology also expands potential applications within the low-altitude economy. Zhu Kelie, founder and dean of the New Economy Research Institute, cited the example of agricultural drones conducting cross-border operations. “Satellite communication can support their cross-regional deployment and data transmission,” he said. “Emergency rescue drones, even when losing ground network connectivity in disaster zones, can rely on satellites to maintain communication with command centers.” He believes this convergence of technologies will attract further investment and promote collaboration across the drone manufacturing, airspace management, and data services sectors, creating a positive feedback loop of “technology-scenario-industry” development.
Looking Ahead: Driving “Internet of Everything” Connectivity
China’s satellite communication sector has gained significant momentum this year. In August, the MIIT released guidelines to optimize business access and promote the development of the satellite communication industry, outlining a comprehensive plan for the sector. In October, a draft notice soliciting public feedback was released regarding the organization of commercial trials for satellite IoT services.
Currently, China Telecom, China Mobile, and China Unicom – the country’s three major telecom operators – have all secured licenses to operate satellite mobile communication businesses, enabling them to offer services like direct-to-satellite mobile connectivity. These operators are focusing on applications in emergency communications, maritime communications, and providing connectivity to remote areas, expanding communication services and product offerings.
On November 21, China Telecom launched a trial commercial service for its “Tiantong + Beidou” domestically produced star-based high-precision positioning service, providing coverage to areas with limited or no network access, including remote regions, oceans, low-altitude airspace, and low Earth orbit. This enhanced signal strength is expected to support applications like drone inspections, deliveries, and low-altitude air travel.
（文章来源：科技日报）
Article source: Science and Technology Daily
Original Title: Hotspot Response | Launch of Satellite IoT Business Commercial Trial to Address Low-Altitude Communication Shortcomings and Expand the Space for the Internet of Everything
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