Nordic Semiconductor Achieves Satellite Network Certification to Enable Global IoT Services

Nordic Semiconductor Achieves Satellite Network Certification to Enable Global IoT Services

Nordic Semiconductor has announced that its nRF9151 cellular IoT module has been certified for use on Skylo Technologies’ commercially available non-terrestrial network (NTN). The certification confirms full compliance with Skylo’s satellite network, which spans 36 countries and more than 60 million square kilometers, enabling IoT devices to maintain connectivity even in regions without terrestrial network coverage.

The certification marks an important milestone for Nordic, extending its cellular IoT portfolio to include satellite-based NTN support. With a production-ready, certified module, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can now develop IoT solutions designed for truly global operation.

Oyvind Birkenes, EVP of Nordic’s Long Range Business Unit, said, “This certification is a turning point for true global IoT connectivity. From the heart of a city to the most remote corner of the planet, developers can now build IoT devices that stay connected everywhere with a fully certified, production-ready solution. This is how we accelerate innovation, expand our leadership in cellular IoT, and deliver on Nordic’s ambition to shape the future of a truly connected world.”

Vijay Krishnan, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Skylo, said, “The certification of the nRF9151 module marks a pivotal moment for the IoT ecosystem,” added Vijay Krishnan, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Skylo Technologies. “By combining ultra-low-power, standards-based hardware with Skylo’s complementary non-terrestrial network, we’re enabling a new generation of connected devices that can operate seamlessly across geographies. This milestone underscores our commitment to accelerating innovation and empowering developers, OEMs, and enterprises to bring transformative solutions to market faster than ever.”

nRF9151 cellular IoT modulenRF9151 cellular IoT module

With the certification in place, developers and OEMs can immediately integrate the nRF9151 module into production designs targeting Skylo’s satellite network. The module reduces design complexity and accelerates time-to-market for applications such as logistics tracking, smart agriculture, utilities, and critical infrastructure monitoring—particularly in areas where cellular networks are unavailable or unreliable.

The nRF9151 is Nordic’s all-in-one cellular IoT module supporting both terrestrial cellular networks and GEO and LEO satellite connectivity. Optimised for ultra-low-power operation, it integrates an application MCU, a high-performance radio, and GNSS. The module supports LTE-M, NB-IoT, and 3GPP Release 17 compliant NB-NTN, allowing devices to switch seamlessly between terrestrial and satellite networks to ensure uninterrupted connectivity.

To support developers, Nordic offers the nRF9151 SMA DK development kit through its global distribution network. A pre-commercial modem firmware with NTN support is currently available for download, with a commercial firmware release planned for early 2026 following additional certifications.

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