Munich 25-Feb-2025

Murata and Rohde & Schwarz present the world's first Voice over Narrowband NTN testbed at MWC Barcelona 2025

Murata and Rohde & Schwarz have developed the world's first Voice over Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) testbed. To be presented at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona, this innovative demonstration marks a significant leap in 3GPP based satellite connectivity. The resulting push-to-talk like application will enhance safety and communication capabilities in areas without terrestrial network access.

Murata and Rohde & Schwarz have collaborated to introduce the world’s first testbed for Voice over Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN), presented at Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona. With this demonstration, the two companies set a new standard for satellite-based communications, paving the way for voice capabilities even in the most bandwidth-constrained environments.

The innovative testbed utilizes the CMW500 wideband radio communication tester from Rohde & Schwarz as a GEO/GSO satellite eNB emulator, along with Murata's Type1SC Cat.M1/NB-IoT/NB-NTN module featuring the Sony’s Altair Chip ALT1250. It also employs a VoIP client application developed by Rohde & Schwarz, which uses codecs that operate at ultra-low bitrates. This technology addresses critical communication needs where traditional networks are inadequate. The demonstrator opens the door for push-to-talk-like NB-NTN applications, making it particularly suitable for emergency situations, disaster response, remote areas, and maritime operations.

With the rapid adoption of NB-NTN chipsets in smartphones, wearables, and automotive systems, this technology significantly enhances ubiquitous connectivity solutions. The demonstration highlights the potential of enhanced Narrowband NTN service with push-to-talk voice in addition to emergency SOS, and SMS. The partnership between Murata and Rohde & Schwarz reflects their joint commitment to advancing NTN related use cases.

Visitors to MWC 2025 can experience this milestone demonstration live at the Murata booth 5D66 in hall 5 of the Fira Gran Via in Barcelona from March 3 to 6, 2025. For further information, please contact your local Murata sales representative or go to https://www.murata.com.

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Rohde & Schwarz

Rohde & Schwarz is striving for a safer and connected world with its Test & Measurement, Technology Systems and Networks & Cybersecurity Divisions. For over 90 years, the global technology group has pushed technical boundaries with developments in cutting-edge technologies. The company's leading-edge products and solutions empower industrial, regulatory and government customers to attain technological and digital sovereignty. The privately owned, Munich based company can act independently, long-term and sustainably. Rohde & Schwarz generated net revenue of EUR 2.93 billion in the 2023/2024 fiscal year (July to June). On June 30, 2024, Rohde & Schwarz had more than 14,400 employees worldwide.

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About Murata

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd. is a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and sale of ceramic-based passive electronic components & solutions, communication modules and power supply modules. Murata is committed to the development of advanced electronic materials and leading edge, multi-functional, high-density modules. The company has employees and manufacturing facilities throughout the world.