ABI Research predicts 24 million satellite-linked IoT connections by 2024

A new study argues there will be 24 million IoT connections made via satellite by 2024 – leading to ‘seamless’ global connectivity.The report from ABI Research, titled ‘Satellite in IoT: New Satellite Networks for New Wave of IoT Investment’, forecasts that segments expected to see significant growth include agriculture, asset tracking, maritime tracking, and aviation tracking.Harriet Sumnall, research analyst at ABI Research, said: “Terrestrial cellular networks only cover 20% of the Earth’s surface, while satellite networks can cover the entire surface of the globe, from pole to pole. The expansion of the satellite constellations that are currently in orbit and those due to take place will allow for connectivity to be more global. While the market using satellite connection is still immature, it shows great opportunities for growth.