The latest effort to develop ubiquitous mobile connectivity by combining terrestrial 5G with satellite networks is being undertaken by Ericsson in collaboration with Qualcomm and French aerospace group Thales. The three companies have already conducted various studies and simulations to assess feasibility of implementing 5G across terrestrial cellular networks and low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, with the next step being to begin smartphone use case testing and validation of the 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) elements. Ericsson is claiming that the project could enable global wideband data coverage for 5G smartphones by filling in gaps in remote areas or rugged terrain open to the sky but obstructive for terrestrial signals. “This testing and validation cooperation between…