Murata and Rohde & Schwarz present the world’s first Voice over Narrowband NTN testbed at MWC Barcelona 2025
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 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 Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network applications, making it particularly suitable for emergencies, disaster response, remote areas, and maritime operations.
With the rapid adoption of Voice over Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network 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.