Swarm, the Internet-of-Things (IoT) connectivity provider that was acquired by SpaceX, has announced that it will no longer be selling new devices. In an email sent to customers, Swarm revealed that this decision is connected to SpaceX’s upcoming foray into the satellite-to-cell market. Swarm intends to offer a modified version of its existing product to customers in the future.
Swarm was acquired by SpaceX in 2020, with the aim of providing global IoT connectivity through a network of small satellites. The company’s product, Swarm Tile, is a small, low-power device that enables IoT devices to connect to the network. However, with SpaceX’s plans to expand into the satellite-to-cell market, it seems that Swarm’s focus will now shift.
In the email sent to customers, Swarm explained that they will no longer be selling new devices, but will continue to support existing customers. They also mentioned that they are working on a modified version of their product that will be compatible with SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell network. Swarm assured customers that they will provide more information about this new offering in the coming months.
This move by Swarm is seen as a strategic decision to align with SpaceX’s future plans. By adapting their product to work with SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell network, Swarm aims to continue providing IoT connectivity to its customers. This new network is expected to offer improved coverage and connectivity, making it an attractive option for IoT device manufacturers and users.
SpaceX’s expansion into the satellite-to-cell market is a significant development in the telecommunications industry. The company plans to use its Starlink satellite constellation to provide broadband internet access directly to cell towers, bypassing the need for traditional terrestrial infrastructure. This approach has the potential to revolutionize connectivity in remote and underserved areas, where building traditional infrastructure is challenging and expensive.
By leveraging its satellite network, SpaceX aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access to users around the world. The company has already launched thousands of Starlink satellites into orbit and is actively expanding its network. With the addition of the satellite-to-cell capability, SpaceX will be able to offer a complete end-to-end solution for connectivity, from space to the end-user device.
Top things to Know:
1. Swarm, the IoT connectivity provider acquired by SpaceX, will no longer sell new devices.
2. This decision is related to SpaceX’s expansion into the satellite-to-cell market.
3. Swarm plans to offer a modified version of its product that will be compatible with SpaceX’s network.
4. The move is seen as a strategic decision to align with SpaceX’s future plans.
5. SpaceX’s satellite-to-cell network aims to provide improved coverage and connectivity.
6. The network leverages SpaceX’s Starlink satellite constellation to deliver broadband internet access directly to cell towers.
7. This approach has the potential to revolutionize connectivity in remote and underserved areas.
8. SpaceX is actively expanding its satellite network and aims to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access globally.
Original article: https://techcrunch.com/2023/07/20/spacexs-swarm-technologies-is-halting-new-device-sales/
