Harman just unveiled two significant developments: satellite-enabled in-cabin voice calling for cars, and its first dedicated two-wheeler connectivity platform, Ready Ride. Different vehicles, same objective — resilient, always-on communication.
First up, in collaboration with US satellite communications giant Viasat, Harman is enabling in-cabin voice calls via satellite connectivity using its Ready Connect telematics control unit (TCU). The system integrates 4G, 5G and 3GPP Narrowband Non-Terrestrial Network (NB-NTN) satellite capability within the same hardware platform. Rather than replacing terrestrial networks, satellite connectivity acts as a safety net — stepping in when cellular coverage drops away.
For drivers travelling through rural areas, mountain regions or other mobile blackspots, that means voice access to emergency services, roadside assistance or family contacts when it matters most. The collaboration leverages Viasat’s Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) constellation, giving OEMs access to licensed global spectrum and established satellite infrastructure without needing to redesign core vehicle architecture.
Importantly, this isn’t just about voice. Harman says the NB-NTN architecture also supports low-data-rate telematics use cases including messaging, emergency SOS, remote diagnostics and stolen vehicle tracking — with a roadmap toward broadband satellite services that could eventually enable higher-bandwidth media and streaming applications inside the car. In short: fewer dead zones, greater resilience.
Then there's Ready Ride, bringing proper telematics to motorcycles. While passenger cars have become increasingly connected, motorcycles have lagged behind. Harman has responded with its first purpose-built two-wheeler connectivity platform.
Unlike adapted car systems, Ready Ride has been engineered specifically for motorcycle demands. It combines a compact, ruggedised telematics control unit, cellular connectivity, intelligent software stack and OEM backend into a scalable package designed to reduce integration time and lower total cost of ownership. The hardware is IP69-rated, validated for motorcycle-grade shock and vibration, and built with rugged connectors to withstand washdowns and harsh conditions. In other words, it’s designed for real-world riding, not just lab benches.
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Under the skin, the platform is powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis SoC for two-wheelers, enabling over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics and scalable telematics services. Planned roadmap features include theft alerts and stolen vehicle tracking; remote immobilisation; crash and tip-over detection; eCall functionality with backup battery; and Advanced Ride Assistance System (ARAS) hazard alerts.
For riders, Ready Ride also supports dual Bluetooth and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — providing integrated navigation, communication and media access without relying on a handlebar-mounted smartphone. For OEMs, the big win is architectural reuse across models and markets, helping reduce engineering rework while accelerating time-to-market.
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