Icomera Expands its Rail Connectivity Portfolio with the Launch of the XS1 Router

Rail operators face increasingly diverse onboard Internet connectivity requirements, driven by differences in fleet types, vehicle architecture, space constraints, and operational priorities. To meet those needs, Icomera, a wholly owned subsidiary of Equans, today announced the launch of the XS1, a compact, connectivity‑focused rail router designed for deployments where reliable onboard connectivity is the primary requirement.

Connectivity‑first 5G rail router, ready for LEO satellite

The Icomera XS1 is built on Icomera’s established X‑series software architecture, already deployed at scale across live rail fleets worldwide, supporting large numbers of onboard systems and serving millions of passenger journeys every day. The XS1 brings together aggregated connectivity across 5G cellular, private trackside, and low‑Earth‑orbit (LEO) satellite networks into a single onboard service layer. This includes support for Starlink, where Icomera is an authorised reseller, alongside other satellite connectivity options.

Designed for simpler deployments and fleet modernisation

While high‑performance onboard computing platforms play a vital role in many fleets, there are also deployments where simplicity, ease of installation, and right‑sized capability matter most. The XS1 has been designed for these scenarios, offering operators a smaller and lighter rail‑grade router that delivers secure, high‑quality connectivity without unnecessary hardware complexity.

It is well suited to fleet modernisation projects and space‑constrained vehicles such as metros, light rail, and regional trains, with a compact form factor that supports more modular and distributed onboard connectivity designs, enabling easier installation and retrofit, and dedicated migration designs to help simplify transitions from earlier‑generation routers.

A complementary addition to Icomera’s router portfolio

“The XS1 expands our portfolio of rail-specific connectivity products, complementing the flagship Icomera X7 router” explains Damien Convert, Chief Business Officer. “While the X7 combines high‑performance connectivity with substantial built-in computer processing power and storage to support multiple, resource‑intensive applications, the XS1 is optimised for deployments where reliable connectivity is the priority, and onboard computing plays a less central role”.

Together, the two routers give operators greater flexibility to select the right technology for different vehicles, operating models, and needs, rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all approach across a fleet.

Proven operations at fleet scale

Like other Icomera products, the XS1 operates within the company’s established People, Processes, and Tools model for managed rail connectivity. Dedicated service delivery teams clearly defined operational processes, and purpose-built cloud tools combine engineering ingenuity with operational intelligence and long-term partnership. Together, they enable Icomera to deliver connectivity at scale – not only in trials, but across live passenger fleets – with predictable performance, structured lifecycle management from deployment through long-term support, and clearly defined service levels.

The XS1 is entering customer trials ahead of broader availability later in 2026.