5G and 6G is the next big leap forward for terrestrial and satellite telecommunications, driving the integration of satellite networks into cellular networks on the ground. The convergence of fixed and mobile services is introducing a new set of technologies and evolving 3GPP standards to support the next generation of communication between everyone, everything and everywhere.

Increased functionality expected from 5G (e.g. improved radio level decision making, all-IP networking) together with further equipment miniaturisation and simplification, the lowering capital costs and more advanced antenna technologies (e.g. electronically steered, liquid crystal display flat panels) will better position satellite delivery towards the edge of the network and ultimately directly into end user device level.