Connecting the World from the Skies: A Global Forum on Future Connectivity

A New Era of Connectivity

The recent conclusion of the second Connecting the World from the Skies Global Forum marks a significant milestone in the quest for enhanced global connectivity. Held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on November 26, 2024, the forum successfully gathered 82 esteemed speakers and participants, including 16 CEOs and 9 regulators. This assembly aimed to redefine the landscape of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs) and address the global digital divide.

Hosted by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission (CST) in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the event revolved around the theme "Shaping the Future of Convergent Connectivity." The discussions focused on the next frontier of connectivity and the full potential of NTNs to bridge gaps worldwide.

Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of CST, emphasized Saudi Arabia's commitment to uniting global efforts to connect underserved populations and combat digital inequalities. By fostering collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, the forum aimed to accelerate the development and deployment of NTN technologies for the benefit of societies around the globe.

Key Discussions and Innovations

A highlight of the forum was the main roundtable titled "A Global Vision for the Future of NTN Connectivity." Esteemed leaders and experts provided visionary insights on creating integrated communication networks capable of overcoming geographical limitations. Carlos Baigorri, President of Anatel, stressed the importance of global collaboration to ensure equitable regulation and inclusive participation in conversations about space as a shared global resource.

In addition, Aarti Holla-Maini from the UN Office for Outer Space Affairs pointed out three essential factors in evaluating NTN technologies: bandwidth, cost, and service quality. The necessity for broader bandwidth is critical, particularly for applications requiring stable and reliable service, especially in crucial contexts.

The forum also featured the first experiment of Direct-to-Device (D2D) technology in the Middle East and North Africa region. This innovative approach involved connecting devices compliant with the 3GPP standard to a satellite, facilitating data transmission and reception in unconnected areas. The experiment aimed to extend connectivity to underserved regions and stimulate both global and local investments in the NTN sector.

Moreover, the forum hosted the second International Research Competition focused on Non-Terrestrial Networks for 6G, with over 170 researchers and academics from 30 countries vying for recognition. The competition, organized in collaboration with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), promotes innovative solutions and advances scientific research within the NTN realm. The three top proposals were awarded during the forum, highlighting their contributions to furthering 6G technology.

Main Themes and Future Directions

Several pivotal themes emerged throughout the forum, including seamless direct connectivity between devices, alignment of global visions for national telecommunication networks, potential utilizations of D2D connections, and sustainability in the space economy. Attendees explored the future trajectory of space economics, further reinforcing the need for collaborative efforts in the ever-evolving telecommunications landscape.

For those interested in learning more about the forum or delving into specific discussions, further details can be found on the official site Connecting From The Skies. The forum serves as a beacon of hope and innovation in tackling the critical challenges of global connectivity, paving the way for future advancements in technology and communication worldwide.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the second edition of the Connecting the World from the Skies Global Forum has underscored the importance of innovative technology, cross-border collaboration, and a united approach toward tackling the digital divide. As we look forward, the dialogue at this forum sets a promising stage for future developments in connectivity, encouraging continued exploration and investment in NTNs for a truly connected world.