LG Electronics announced on Thursday that it demonstrated a groundbreaking satellite-based next-generation voice communication solution to revolutionize driver safety during the 34th General Assembly of the 5G Automotive Association (5GAA) in Paris, France.
This cutting-edge solution utilizes non-terrestrial networks (NTN) operating beyond the atmosphere, such as artificial satellites, to enable conversational-level voice communication within vehicles. LG Electronics is the first to showcase voice communication technology that allows two-way interaction beyond simple voice transmissions.
NTN-based communication is a crucial technology for driver safety. It enables communication in areas with poor network connectivity, such as deserts and mountainous regions, or during disasters when infrastructure is compromised.
LG Electronics has enhanced NTN-based communication technology by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) voice processing. This innovation significantly reduces the size of voice messages, expanding satellite communication services beyond emergency text messages to include voice communication, overcoming previous data capacity limitations.
This advancement accelerates voice message transmission speeds by more than ten times, enabling real-time conversations. Vehicle occupants can press the emergency call button on the in-car display to send messages and explain their situation to rescue centers equipped with satellite communication devices, without requiring text input or additional actions.
LG Electronics has also developed a real-time software platform that monitors the vehicle’s location and information, ensuring seamless connectivity to the appropriate network even as the environment changes. The system automatically switches to non-terrestrial networks when vehicles enter areas without ground network coverage.
During the 5GAA General Assembly, LG Electronics conducted the first-ever demonstration of a vehicle equipped with next-generation voice communication technology driving through downtown Paris. The demonstration showcased uninterrupted voice communication services despite network transitions. Attendees experienced LG Electronics’ innovative connected mobility technology by verifying voice messages sent via non-terrestrial networks in areas with ground network connectivity.
LG Electronics is at the forefront of connected technology, a crucial element in transitioning to software-defined vehicles (SDV) and telematics. Since entering the telematics market in 2003, the company has become a trusted partner for global automakers, notably by being the first to receive international Common Criteria (CC) certification for V2X (vehicle-to-everything) communication, ensuring security and reliability. Based on internal estimates derived from market research firm Strategy Analytics’ data, LG Electronics maintains its position as the global leader in the telematics market.
To advance research and commercialization of future vehicles, including autonomous and connected cars based on 5G technology, LG Electronics has been an active member of the global vehicle communication alliance 5GAA since its establishment in 2016. The 5GAA comprises over 110 companies, including major automakers, automotive component suppliers, telecommunications operators, and chipset and communication equipment manufacturers.