Space42: Space42, the UAE-based AI-powered SpaceTech company, today announced successful testing of Direct-to-Device (D2D) SMS and SOS services on standard devices in the UAE, in partnership with Skylo Technologies, a leading global Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) service provider. The testing was conducted between a standard Android smartphone and a satellite messaging device, confirming two-way connectivity through Thuraya-4, Space42's next-generation mobile communications satellite.
According to Emirates News Agency, integration via Skylo's 3GPP-compliant NTN platform ensures that no additional hardware is required to support connection. The demonstration validates the potential for D2D messaging services in the UAE and Thuraya-4 wider footprint, advancing Space42's role within the national telecommunication ecosystem.
Ali Al Hashmi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, emphasized the significance of this technological advancement, stating that the focus on Direct-to-Device capability forms the core of their strategy to become a global leader in Non-Terrestrial Networks. He remarked that the successful test with Skylo proves Thuraya-4's capability to provide carrier-grade, resilient messaging directly to devices, thereby extending access to enterprises, governments, mobile operators, and consumers.
Parth Trivedi, CEO and co-founder of Skylo, noted that the ability to use standard Android devices for two-way SMS and SOS over the Thuraya-4 satellite, without any changes to existing operator core infrastructure, marks a notable step toward commercial service and creates a foundation for future developments.
For mobile network operators, the test confirms that D2D messages can be delivered through their own SIM and identity framework, without changes to their existing infrastructure. For consumer and enterprise subscribers, this technological milestone means SMS communication and SOS access anywhere, even in areas with limited or no terrestrial coverage such as deserts, mountains, and maritime zones.
The commercial rollout of the D2D messaging services is anticipated toward the end of the year, contingent upon regulatory approvals. Space42 and Skylo are also working on developing further D2D capabilities on the same 3GPP NTN layer validated through this testing, including location sharing, application and IoT data transmission, and automotive connectivity. These advancements aim to extend Thuraya-4's reach to new categories of existing and future smart devices, with rollout scheduled in the near future.