Core Insights - Keysight Technologies will demonstrate lab-based validation of new radio non-terrestrial networks (NR-NTN) devices in collaboration with Samsung Electronics at Mobile World Congress 2026, focusing on Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite deployments, including Starlink Direct to Cell [1][2] Group 1: Industry Context - Satellite connectivity is becoming essential for the evolution of 5G and future 6G networks, necessitating early validation of NR-NTN performance by chipset and device vendors before large-scale deployment [2] - LEO satellite systems present unique challenges such as rapid motion, frequent handovers, dynamic link conditions, and stringent positioning requirements, which require accurate laboratory methods for performance assessment [2] Group 2: Technology and Solutions - Keysight's NTN Network Emulator Solutions simulate LEO satellite characteristics in a controlled lab environment, integrating a 5G Network Emulator with a Samsung NR-NTN modem to validate mobility, service continuity, and higher-throughput MIMO configurations [3] - The demonstration will also highlight Keysight's positioning emulation capabilities, enhanced by its recent acquisition of Spirent, enabling accurate global navigation satellite system-based positioning [4] Group 3: Executive Insights - Samsung's Executive Vice President emphasized that NR-NTN introduces technical challenges for modem design, and the collaboration with Keysight is crucial for validating modem performance under satellite conditions [5] - Keysight's Vice President noted that the transition from concept to deployment for direct-to-device satellite connectivity makes early end-to-end NR-NTN validation essential, providing a repeatable method to ensure interoperability and performance [5]