Zhejiang approves first commercial satellite IoT trial, with Taizhou leading applications

Low-Earth orbit satellite IoT technology supports connected smart vehicles. [Photo/The official news website of Taizhou]

Zhejiang Geespace Technology Co has received a two-year commercial trial license from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology for satellite Internet of Things services, making it the first private company in Zhejiang to obtain nationwide trial status. The company is conducting technical trials through its self-developed low-Earth orbit satellite constellation to advance the commercialization of satellite communications for 6G.

The company currently operates 64 satellites in orbit, providing communications coverage across most of the world. Taizhou has been among the first to apply the technology in multiple scenarios, including maritime law enforcement. The company plans to equip 60 fishing boats with satellite terminals and support low-altitude drone operations. It has also established an integrated satellite industry chain, delivering over 20,000 vehicle-mounted terminals.

The company has launched an open-source ecosystem for low-Earth orbit communications, attracting cooperation interest and securing orders worth more than 100 million yuan ($14.88 million). It is also expanding its global footprint as Zhejiang's commercial space sector explores ways to bring satellite IoT technology into the real economy and develop viable commercial applications.