ZTE 5G NTN: Bridging Global Connectivity Divide

Introduction

In the surging tide of the information age, the development of integrated global communication networks encompassing sea, sky, and land has become a key driving force in societal progress. Despite significant advancements in terrestrial network expansion, vast oceans and remote lands still face the reality of lacking network coverage, leaving a considerable proportion of the globe in an information isolation. Leveraging its profound technical expertise and insight into the era’s trends, ZTE has introduced the 5G non-terrestrial network (NTN) solution based on 3GPP standards. This article delves into ZTE 5G NTN concept, implementation, and prospects, illuminating how it sets a new direction for the future development of integrated satellite-terrestrial communication networks.

Satellite Communication: Meeting Urgent Demands for Comprehensive Coverage

Addressing the challenge of facilitating effective communication and emergency responses in areas without terrestrial network coverage is a significant hurdle facing the global communications industry. Satellite communication has emerged as a key solution to this challenge. The widespread deployment of satellite communication is gradually revealing its indispensable strategic role in the communications sector (Fig. 1). Leading companies are leveraging satellite communication as a breakthrough, exploring diverse technological pathways. SpaceX’s Starlink program has deployed over 5,000 satellites in orbit, with a user base exceeding two million; the emerging force, AST SpaceMobile, is closely collaborating with numerous global operators to co-develop future strategies.

However, current satellite communication methods have their limitations. Traditional satellite telephony offers stable signals and strong environmental adaptability but requires bulky, cumbersome terminals. Moreover, satellite broadband services, represented by Starlink, have made technical advancements, yet their terminal equipment and service fees remain relatively high, hindering widespread adoption.

ZTE 5G NTN: Achieving Universal Connectivity Through Space, Air, and Land Integration

ZTE has proposed a unique, 3GPP-compliant 5G NTN solution. This approach opens up communication channels for remote areas, providing not only convenience and efficiency in communication for users but also paving new avenues for economic growth within the industry.

In its initial phase, the solution leverages mature geostationary satellites. These high-orbit satellites effectively cover vast areas, thereby significantly reducing the number of satellites required. This approach not only conserves resources but also contributes to global environmental protection. The solution aligns with 3GPP standards, ensuring minimal resource utilization for emergency communication and IoT services. This marks a multifunctional and forward-looking milestone in telecommunications development.

As networks evolve to the next step, especially with low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the renewable network architecture will support satellite uplink capabilities for base stations. This enables existing network terminals to connect directly to satellites without the need for modifications. The significant economies of scale brought about by existing terminals and their satellite links will rapidly reduce the cost of satellite connections, showcasing the potential for large-scale commercial applications.

• Universal benefits, diverse integration: Compared to other satellite communication methods, the 5G NTN solution, grounded in the 3GPP standard, offers distinct advantages in terms of terminal ubiquity, industry integration, and service versatility. This places it at the forefront of satellite-terrestrial integration technology. Currently, 5G NTN excels in IoT-NTN short messaging and IoT services, and in the future, it will support NR-NTN voice and broadband data services for existing mobile phones.
• Customer priority, enhanced experience: At the core of  ZTE 5G NTN solution is a dedication to enhancing user experience. The technology transforms ordinary smartphones into advanced communication devices capable of connecting via satellite, enabling individuals in the most remote areas to access reliable network services. For industry users, the solution ensures robust, reliable, and cost-effective communication—essential for efficient operations in maritime, logistics, and emergency scenarios.
• Secure and reliable, exceptional trust: In the realm of global telecommunications, security and reliability are paramount. ZTE 5G NTN solution is built on advanced encryption and robust communication protocols, ensuring secure communication across all channels. The system’s resilience and reliability are engineered to ensure consistent performance, even under challenging environmental conditions. This reliability is crucial for addressing critical communication needs, especially in scenarios involving natural disasters, remote explorations, and maritime emergencies.

Rapid Technological Advancements in ZTE 5G NTN

After the R17 NTN standard was frozen in June 2022, ZTE has initiated a series of technical experiments and commercial applications worldwide. In May 2023, ZTE, in partnership with China Telecom and VIVO, completed the first 5G NTN direct-to-cell field trial in China. This trial utilized domestically developed communication satellites and ground mobile communication systems, with ZTE’s 5G base stations featuring NTN capabilities. It overcame crucial technical challenges such as frequency and time synchronization in geostationary orbit satellite communications, verifying the practicality and reliability of 5G NTN technology and solidifying the foundation for the commercial application of direct-to-satellite smartphone technology.

In September 2023, ZTE’s collaboration with China Mobile marked another significant achievement with the successful completion of the first domestic operator-led NR-NTN low-earth-orbit satellite broadband service laboratory trial. This success not only showcased technological prowess but also hinted at the expansive future applications of 5G NR-NTN technology.

Also, in September 2023, ZTE and China Telecom finished a maritime scenario trial of 5G NTN technology, achieving successful interaction and data transmission via on-orbit geostationary satellite in sea and uninhabited island scenarios. The trial, which involved real-time business verification in multiple terminals and scenarios like ocean water quality monitoring and emergency rescue on uninhabited islands, demonstrated the effectiveness and reliability of 5G NTN in complex environments.

In November, in collaboration with China Unicom, ZTE completed the first laboratory trial of 3GPP NR NTN low-earth-orbit satellite voice and video calls, laying the foundation for the deployment of integrated satellite-terrestrial network applications. This series of verifications and experiments is not only a testament to technological innovation but also reinforces ZTE’s leadership in the global 5G NTN sphere. As these technologies continue to mature and find applications, communication of the future will be boundless, and information exchange more fluid. ZTE is leading this wave of innovation and transformation.

Real Impact and Future Prospects

The practical impact of ZTE 5G NTN solution is demonstrated through its successful deployments in a variety of scenarios. By providing stable and high-quality connectivity, ZTE is helping to break down barriers that have hindered the progress of remote regions. Moreover, as economies of scale materialize, the cost of satellite connections is expected to decline further, expanding the commercial prospects and market potential for 5G NTN technology. This represents a pivotal direction for the future of the telecom industry and its evolution towards 6G.

ZTE, positioned at the forefront of this transformation, is driving innovation to achieve more seamless, rapid, and universal connectivity. The company’s commitment to research in this field underscores its determination to maintain a leading position in the telecom industry, ensuring that its solutions remain at the cutting edge. As 5G NTN is increasingly adopted and implemented, it is reasonable to anticipate a world where information exchange flows more freely, and every corner of the planet enjoys access to equal and efficient communication services.