On January 8, 2026, Keysight Technologies Inc. (NYSE: KEYS) announced a significant advancement in the realm of satellite communications, unveiling an end-to-end live new radio non-terrestrial networks (NR-NTN) connection in the n252 S-Band. This innovative demonstration, conducted in partnership with Samsung Electronics, showcases satellite-to-satellite (SAT-to-SAT) mobility using commercial-grade modem technology. The event took place at the prestigious CES 2026, marking a pivotal moment for the emerging direct-to-cell satellite market.

2. Validation of the n252 Band

The demonstration not only highlights the capabilities of Keysight’s technology but also serves as public validation of the n252 band within an NTN system. This new band is projected to be adopted widely by next-generation low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations. The increasing demand for reliable global connectivity across various sectors—including consumer electronics, vehicles, IoT devices, and critical communications—has spurred operators, device manufacturers, and satellite providers to accelerate investments in NTN technologies.

3. Comprehensive Band Coverage

With the successful demonstration of n252, along with previous validations in n255 and n256, Keysight has now solidified end-to-end validation for all major NR-NTN frequency range 1 (FR1) bands. This consolidation is crucial for enabling modem vendors, satellite operators, and device manufacturers to assess cross-band performance and mobility comprehensively. As the industry gears up for commercial NTN services, this achievement lays the groundwork for seamless integration and functionality across various platforms.

4. Enhanced Testing Capabilities

Keysight’s NTN Network Emulator Solutions were integral to the demonstration, creating realistic multi-orbit LEO conditions and enabling SAT-to-SAT mobility while running live user applications over the NTN link. The collaboration with Samsung’s next-generation modem chipset validates user performance, interoperability, and adherence to standards. This high-fidelity testing environment not only reduces risk but also accelerates trial processes, shortening the time-to-market for NR-NTN solutions expected to scale throughout 2026.

5. Key Insights from Leadership

Peng Cao, Vice President and General Manager of Keysight’s Wireless Test Group, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “Together with Samsung's System LSI Business, we are demonstrating the live NTN connection in 3GPP band n252 using commercial-grade modem silicon with true SAT-to-SAT mobility. With n252, n255, and n256 now validated across NTN, the ecosystem is clearly accelerating toward bringing direct-to-cell satellite connectivity to mass-market devices. Keysight’s NTN emulation environment enables chipset and device makers a controlled way to prove multi-satellite mobility, interoperability, and user-level performance, helping the industry move from concept to commercialization.”

6. Looking Ahead

As the demand for global connectivity continues to rise, Keysight's groundbreaking achievement in live NR-NTN connectivity positions the company as a leader in the satellite communications landscape. The collaboration with Samsung and the successful demonstration at CES 2026 reaffirm Keysight's commitment to driving innovation in the industry, paving the way for a future where direct-to-cell satellite services become a reality for consumers worldwide.

The implications of this advancement extend beyond technical validation; it marks a crucial step towards the realization of a fully connected world, where seamless communication is no longer constrained by terrestrial limitations.

Original press release