The funds will support Skylo in deploying network hardware for geostationary operators, enabling their gateways to connect compatible smartphones using the latest cellular standards.
Skylo has closed a $30m oversubscribed funding round, led by NGP Capital, with participation from Westly Group and existing investors including Intel Capital, BMW i Ventures, Samsung Catalyst Fund, and Next47. The new investment will fuel Skylos continued expansion, enabling broader commercial coverage in Brazil, Australia and New Zealand, alongside its already growing presence in key markets.
As the major standards-based direct-to-device satellite network, Skylo allows smartphones, vehicles and IoT devices to stay connected even in areas without cellular coverage. Unlike traditional satellite service providers, Skylo has developed a fully integrated system that seamlessly connects existing mobile network ecosystems with satellite technology. The company collaborates with leading chipset manufacturers, device makers and mobile operators to ensure widespread adoption.
Skylos service now provides coverage across the entire United Statesincluding Alaska, Hawaii and US territoriesas well as additional regions in South America and Oceania. This expansion is powered by a partnership with Viasat, a global leader in satellite communications.
Despite advancements in mobile technology, an estimated 85% of the planet still lacks consistent cellular coverage. Skylo addresses this issue by enabling standard mobile devices to switch to satellite networks when terrestrial signals are unavailable. Rather than relying on cell towers, Skylo leverages existing satellite infrastructure, allowing users to connect as they would on a traditional mobile network while ensuring uninterrupted access in remote and underserved areas.
Parthsarathi Trivedi, CEO and co-founder of Skylo, said: “Skylos mission is to drive extreme accessibility of connectivity for cellular devices worldwide. Skylo is synonymous with anywhere connectivity for all, and this new funding allows us to enhance our market reach even farther and faster.”
Skylos non-terrestrial network has already enabled millions of messages worldwide and is playing a crucial role in emergency situations.
Debjit Mukerji, Partner at NGP Capital, added: “Skylo stands apart as the category leader in the rapidly emerging direct-to-device (D2D) satellite connectivity space. It is already operating one of the worlds first commercial solutions at a significant scale, with millions of consumers connected to the Skylo network. What has unlocked Skylos incredible growth is the depth of its standards-plus technology stack that democratises access to ubiquitous mobile connectivity. We are excited to partner with Parth and his team as their global commercialisation continues to inflect.”
