Smartwatches Enter a New Era of Satellite Connectivity

Satellite-enabled smartwatches are emerging as the next frontier in the wearables ecosystem, bridging terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks (NTN), according to Counterpoint Research. With the integration of 3GPP-standard Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) modems, smartwatches can maintain low-power, global connectivity for critical messaging, tracking, and safety functions even in regions without cellular coverage.

Satellite-capable smartwatches are projected to grow from 2% of total shipments in 3Q25 to 28% by 2030. The early market (2025-2026) will be led by proprietary satellite solutions from players like Apple and Huawei. From 2027 onward, adoption will accelerate as standardized NB-NTN becomes mainstream, with Google, Garmin, and broader Android OEMs integrating 3GPP-compliant satellite modems into their wearables.

For now, satellite features are mostly limited to premium smartwatches priced above $500, but this barrier should ease as NB-NTN scales. Since NB-NTN requires no additional hardware for cellular-capable watches, OEMs will likely introduce it first in the premium segment. However, competitive pressure should gradually push satellite connectivity into mid-range models. North America and Europe are leading adoption today, and China is expected to follow as ecosystem support continues to strengthen.

Since Apple introduced its satellite SOS service in 2022 in smartphones and Huawei followed with Tiantong-based connectivity in 2023, satellite communication has moved from niche to mainstream awareness. With standardized NB-NTN now beginning commercialization, smartwatches are poised to be early adopters due to their compact form factor and the growing demand for ‘always-on’ connectivity. Adoption of satellite smartwatches will accelerate as users look for reliable communication beyond cellular coverage, especially during activities like trekking or in areas with patchy coverage.

The rollout of standardized NB-NTN technology will ensure global compatibility and low-power operation, making satellite access more practical for compact wearables. Advancements in chipsets and integrated antennas will reduce design complexity and cost, while operator partnerships will bring seamless hybrid data plans. Together, these factors will drive satellite connectivity from niche use cases to mainstream smartwatch adoption.

NB-NTN development in wearables is driven by advancements across chipsets, satellite operators, and ecosystem partnerships. Platforms like Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2, Altair ALT1250, MLINK 210, and UNISOC V8821 are integrating NB-IoT and NTN capabilities, building the silicon base for the next generation of satellite-ready wearables. Collaborations with operators such as Skylo, Sateliot, Omnispace, and Lynk Global are enabling standardized NTN coverage aligned with 3GPP frameworks. At the same time, deeper collaboration between device makers, mobile operators, and satellite providers is setting the stage for seamless hybrid terrestrial-satellite data plans.

Huawei and Apple started the trend with their proprietary satellite solutions, but standards-based NB NTN will take the industry to the next level by enabling real scale. With better interoperability, lower costs, and broader ecosystem support, satellite-enabled smartwatches will move from niche features to more mainstream use. The next phase of competition will focus on power efficiency, smooth switching between cellular and satellite networks, and stronger partnerships with satellite operators. In the end, satellite-connected smartwatches will push the idea of being ‘always connected’ to a new level, offering coverage wherever users go.