Compal Electronics is pushing into the satellite Internet of Things market through a partnership with Viasat Inc., adding its APAL Hestia NTN IoT dongle to the US satellite operator’s marketplace.
The Taiwanese electronics manufacturer’s device, which complies with 3GPP Release 17 standards, enables two-way satellite communications for IoT applications in areas where traditional ground-based networks are unavailable. The product will be featured at the 2024 Taiwan Space International Conference.
The move comes as satellite companies seek to tap growing demand for IoT connectivity in remote locations and harsh environments where terrestrial infrastructure is limited. Target markets include logistics, agriculture, energy management, and environmental monitoring sectors.
By joining Viasat’s ELEVATE Marketplace platform, Compal aims to expand its distribution channels and market presence in the satellite IoT segment. However, the company faces competition from established satellite IoT providers and will need to demonstrate its technology’s reliability and cost-effectiveness.
The collaboration marks Compal’s effort to diversify beyond its core business of manufacturing laptops and electronic devices for global brands, though the company hasn’t disclosed financial projections for this new venture.
