Satellites as an extension of mobile networks, not a replacement: devices roam to a LEO constellation over NB-IoT NTN when terrestrial coverage ends.
Guest: Nicolas Jordan (OQ Technology)
The Things Podcast, recorded live at The Things Conference 2026, Amsterdam, 23 September 2026
Nicolas Jordan, SVP of Growth at OQ Technology, explains how the company extends cellular networks by satellite, starting with NB-IoT NTN for IoT and moving to texting, voice and video on mobiles. With 12 satellites launched and roaming agreements with 20 mobile operators, OQ targets pipelines, rail, mining and utilities, where one or two messages a day are enough. He covers direct-to-device versus ground stations, backhauling LoRaWAN over satellite, why launch speed is the real constraint, and data sovereignty.
