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Direct-to-Cell Technology: Enabling Satellite Connectivity for Legacy Devices
Download the white paper to explore how direct-to-cell technology brings satellite LTE connectivity to existing devices and supports the path to 5G NTN and 6G.
June 02, 2026
by Rohde & Schwarz
Topics Covered
Direct-to-Cell Technology Overview
LTE Connectivity via LEO Satellites
Doppler Shift and Latency Challenges
Spectrum Sharing and Regulatory Considerations
Mobility, Handover, and Network Performance
Path Toward 5G NTN and 6G
White Paper Overview
Non-terrestrial networks have moved from concept to commercial reality, with satellite-based emergency messaging and connectivity services already emerging. This white paper explains how direct-to-cell technology uses LEO satellites to deliver LTE connectivity to unmodified devices, the physical layer and spectrum challenges involved, and how DTC fits into the evolution toward 5G NTN and 6G.
Learn more about:
- How DTC places LTE base stations on LEO satellites to serve existing phones
- Why Doppler shift and round-trip time create physical layer challenges
- How spectrum sharing and regulatory frameworks enable DTC services
- Where DTC fits on the path toward 5G NTN and 6G
- How DTC enables fast satellite service deployment before NR-NTN adoption
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