New Platform Lets Drones Fly Globally On Single Cellular System

An Israeli startup that specializes in drone connectivity solutions has released a worldwide communications platform that will allow the unmanned aircraft to operate globally without the need to adapt to different cellular systems. 

The new AI-powered platform by Or Yehuda-based Elsight is based on its existing Halo communications system, which allows drones to fly beyond visual line of sight while providing constant updates to ground control. 

The updated version is meant to improve efficiency and cut costs for drone operators as it will remove the need to change cellular services as the UAV moves from area to area.  

The company also allows drone operators to use universal SIM cards rather than country-specific ones. This would potentially allow drone companies in one country to operate in another without having to switch SIM, saving time and money. 

“Gradually, the increased usage of worldwide SIM cards will expedite our supply chain, reducing costs for greater productivity,” said Elsight CEO Yoav Amitai.  

“Our Halo’s value is gaining significant traction in many vertical markets around the world. One recent example occurred during the widespread outage by Australian service provider Optus, when the Sphere Drones empowered by our Halo’s connectivity maintained their flight path continuously.”  

Halo enables the use of LTE, 5G, satellite communications, and radiofrequency to ensure the connection between drones and ground control stays constant. 

“Prior to our worldwide connectivity Halo [platform], several of our customers who work throughout various continents brought this need to our attention,” said Amitai. 

“Now they can save on the time and investment by not having to replace the Halo modems each time they have flights over areas using different cellular communications providers.”