Q1 2025 Insights:
The Future of IoT Connectivity—Satellite, 6G, 5G RedCap, and SGP32
Discover key takeaways from MWC 2025 as Telenor IoT explores the future of connectivity. Learn how Satellite IoT, 6G, 5G RedCap, and SGP.32 are shaping global IoT communications.
Connectivity Reimagined – Bridging Global Gaps
At MWC 2025, the future of connectivity was redefined through innovative solutions that extend well beyond traditional terrestrial networks. Telenor IoT engaged with industry leaders to explore these developments, and our findings are captured in our report, “Five Key Takeaways from MWC 2025.”
We identified emerging trends such as Satellite IoT, advanced 6G capabilities, 5G RedCap, and the evolving eSIM standard SGP32. They will advance global IoT communications, effectively bridging connectivity gaps—even in the most challenging environments.
At MWC, Telenor also announced a new 5G Solutions Lab in Gothenburg, a collaborative initiative with our partner ecosystem that provides a one-stop testing environment for customers and partners. Here, industrial solutions—from AI-driven predictive maintenance to condition-based monitoring powered by 5G—are developed and validated, reinforcing our commitment to real-world innovation.
Key Trends in IoT Connectivity
Satellite IoT: Expanding Global Reach
- Bridging the Gap: Traditional terrestrial networks often fall short in remote and maritime areas. Satellite IoT solutions are proving to be a game changer by providing seamless coverage where conventional infrastructure is lacking.
- New LEO Networks: At MWC 2025, demonstrations highlighted how new Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks are enabling lower latency and more affordable connectivity options for IoT applications. For example, several vendors showcased prototypes that maintain robust connections in areas previously considered unreachable.
- Complementary Technology: Rather than replacing terrestrial networks, satellite IoT is emerging as a complementary solution—offering redundancy and expanded coverage, which is particularly important for global operations.
If I had come to the conference believing that satellite was merely complementary to terrestrial coverage, I left Barcelona thinking it could replace parts of the terrestrial network (helping lower costs in low-traffic areas).”
Bengt NordströmSenior Adviser, Analysys Mason
6G and Future Networks: The Next Leap
- Ultra-Low Latency and Speed: 6G promises not only ultra-low latency and higher speeds but also advanced AI-driven network management that could revolutionize IoT applications, from smart infrastructure to real-time industrial automation.
- Market Expectations: Key discussions at MWC 2025 centered on the anticipated timeline for commercial adoption, with experts forecasting that 6G will start to impact the market by 2030.
- Economic Implications: The push toward 6G is driven by the need to support increasingly complex and data-intensive IoT applications. This evolution is expected to unlock new revenue streams for enterprises, paving the way for smarter cities and more efficient industrial processes.
5G RedCap: Bridging the Gap
- Tailored for IoT: RedCap (Reduced Capability) is a streamlined version of 5G designed specifically for mid-tier IoT applications. It addresses the need for lower power consumption and optimized performance without the overhead of full-scale 5G deployments.
- Practical Applications: Ideal for devices such as smart meters, industrial sensors, and connected medical devices, RedCap is already drawing attention for its ability to balance performance with cost efficiency.
- Real-World Impact: During MWC 2025, several case studies were presented that demonstrated how RedCap could reduce operational costs while maintaining reliable connectivity in diverse environments.
Another area is RedCap—reduced capacity as a narrowband standard from 3GPP, designed to optimize latency, energy consumption, and throughput… It’s a clear reminder that such advancements take time to mature, even though I was hoping for more rapid progress from the Chinese IoT-focused ecosystem.””
Bengt NordströmSenior Adviser, Analysys Mason
SGP.32: The Next Evolution in eSIM Technology
- Enhanced Connectivity Management: SGP.32 is set to redefine IoT connectivity management by improving interoperability and security. It simplifies the lifecycle management of connected devices, ensuring smoother, more reliable global deployments.
- Streamlined Operations: The technology allows for remote and bulk profile switching, making it easier for enterprises to update and manage large fleets of IoT devices quickly in response to changing conditions.
- Growing Adoption: With the global expansion of IoT, SGP.32 is expected to gain rapid adoption, as it addresses critical challenges in device management and connectivity security.
For deeper insights into how it works and why it matters, see our introduction to SGP.32.
Get the Report
Our comprehensive report, “Five Key Takeaways from MWC 2025,” offers a look at how these AI trends are set to redefine the IoT landscape.
MWC 2025: Five Key Takeaways for the Future of Cellular IoT
Hear from Telenor IoT Experts about Their Experience at MWC
Day 3 of MWC kicked off with the GSMA IoT Summit, where industry leaders shared insights on the future of IoT connectivity—from pioneering RedCap deployments to multi-bearer coverage (public, private, and satellite) for seamless connectivity. Hear from Telenor IoT employees about their experience.
Explore Telenor IoT's Connectivity Offering
Managed Connectivity Services: IoT Connect
IoT Complete
Get a Free Consultation
