The IoT market is entering a new growth phase as demand for reliable connectivity in remote areas increases. Recognizing this opportunity, Iridium Communications Inc. IRDM has commercially launched its new Iridium 9604 Hybrid IoT Module and accompanying Development Kit. The solution combines Iridium Short Burst Data (SBD) satellite connectivity, LTE-M cellular communications and GNSS positioning into a compact platform, allowing IoT devices to transition between terrestrial and satellite networks seamlessly.
A key component of the 9604 is its compact design. At just 16 mm × 26 mm × 2.4 mm, the module reportedly reduces board space requirements by 60% or more compared to traditional multi-component architectures. This smaller footprint offers lower manufacturing costs, reduced complexity, simplified RF routing, easier power management and faster hardware validation. For IoT device manufacturers, these efficiencies can translate into cost savings while shortening development cycles. Iridium built the 9604 on the proven u-blox SARA-R5 platform, combining established cellular capabilities with its global satellite network.
The company has been known primarily for satellite-only communications. With this release, Iridium is embracing hybrid connectivity, recognizing that future IoT deployments will increasingly combine multiple communication technologies. The broader ecosystem now includes traditional Iridium SBD modules, the new Iridium 9604 hybrid module, Iridium NTN DirectSM direct-to-device capabilities and the higher-bandwidth Iridium Certus 9704 platform. This diversified portfolio positions Iridium to serve a wider range of IoT use cases, from low-power sensors to bandwidth-intensive industrial applications.
If Iridium executes effectively and continues expanding its ecosystem, the 9604 Hybrid IoT Module could strengthen its competitive edge and position it to capture a larger share of the rapidly growing global IoT market.
How Competitive is the Evolving Satellite Market for IRDM?
Globalstar, Inc. GSAT satellite connectivity platform is poised to support asset tracking, remote monitoring and autonomous operations in areas with limited infrastructure. It continues to benefit from expanding opportunities in government, defense and large-scale IoT deployments, supported by demand for small size, weight, power and cost (SWaP-C) technologies. Its upcoming C-3 constellation of more than 50 satellites is expected to boost network capacity, reliability and support growing direct-to-device, IoT and enterprise connectivity demand. First-quarter service revenue rose 17%, driven by higher wholesale capacity services, growing Commercial IoT subscriptions and increased government-related revenue, while equipment sales increased 13% due to stronger demand for Commercial IoT and SPOT devices.
