Cubic3, a global leader in software-defined vehicle (SDV) solutions, and SoftBank Corp., a premier telecommunications and IT provider headquartered in Tokyo, have expanded their strategic partnership to pioneer a global ‘Ubiquitous Network’ for connected vehicles and other mobile assets. This initiative aims to seamlessly integrate satellite-based non-terrestrial networks (NTN) with terrestrial networks (TN), ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for vehicles regardless of location.
Building on their foundational partnership established in 2024, Cubic3 and SoftBank are now working closely with key satellite communications providers to commercialize this unified network model within the coming years. The focus is on delivering seamless, reliable connectivity to original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) across automotive, agriculture, transportation, and other high-value sectors.
Why It Matters
As vehicles increasingly rely on cloud-based features such as predictive maintenance, over-the-air updates, telematics, and real-time navigation, uninterrupted internet access has become mission-critical. However, many rural and remote regions remain beyond the reach of terrestrial mobile networks. The Ubiquitous Network addresses this gap by bridging terrestrial and satellite systems to ensure global, always-on vehicle connectivity.
A Strategic Technology Vision
At the core of this initiative is the fusion of Cubic3’s cloud-native connectivity platform with SoftBank’s expertise in non-terrestrial networking. This combined capability enables the dynamic selection of optimal network routes — cellular or satellite — based on coverage, bandwidth, and latency requirements. Recognizing that no single network type meets all operational needs, the partnership advocates for a multi-layered approach to vehicle connectivity.
To bring this vision to life, Cubic3 and SoftBank are actively collaborating with leading satellite providers on a number of real-world implementations:
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Intelsat & Cubic3: Successfully demonstrated seamless integration between Intelsat satellites and the Cubic3 Cloud platform. The test confirmed uninterrupted broadband connectivity for vehicles on the move — a key milestone toward operationalizing the Ubiquitous Network. SoftBank and Intelsat also formalized a collaboration agreement in 2024 to advance joint satellite-terrestrial solutions.
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Skylo & Cubic3: Launched the world’s first automotive SIM solution supporting both cellular and satellite communications. This eliminates the need for separate hardware or SIMs, ensuring vehicles remain connected via any available line of sight to the sky — a transformative step for SDVs operating in low-coverage areas.
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Viasat & Cubic3: Announced a series of live trials beginning in 2025 to integrate Viasat’s L-band satellite network with Cubic3 Cloud. These trials will assess performance across applications including voice calls, real-time weather updates, and emergency alerts.
Leadership Commentary
“Connectivity is the lifeblood of the millions of vehicles that will be connected over the next decade,” said Nick Power, Chief Technology Officer at Cubic3. “While terrestrial networks power today’s in-vehicle experiences, large portions of the planet still lack adequate coverage. Our solution unites the terrestrial and non-terrestrial worlds to realize a truly global Ubiquitous Network.”
Takenori Kobayashi, Vice President and Head of Product Technology Division at SoftBank Corp., added: “SoftBank is committed to building a world where everyone and everything is connected — anywhere, anytime. Cubic3 is a critical strategic partner in that journey, enabling a seamless fusion of multiple networks into one cohesive platform.”
New Thought Leadership Publication
In conjunction with this announcement, Cubic3, SoftBank, Intelsat, Skylo, and Viasat have released an eBook titled “Ubiquitous Connectivity: For a Smarter Automotive Future.” The publication explores how universal connectivity will reshape the automotive, agricultural, and transportation landscapes — and outlines how OEMs can harness these developments to drive innovation and resilience. DOWNLOAD THE EBOOK HERE.
