Thuraya SatSleeve turns Apple iPhone into satellite phone

Apple iPhone users in the enterprise, government, and consumer markets can now enjoy satellite telephony services thanks to the recently launched Thuraya SatSleeve adaptor.

SatSleeve is the first consumer-friendly mobile satellite phone in the industry. It leverages Thuraya’s extensive satellite network to provide iPhone users with easy and affordable access to mobile satellite communications.

The compact adaptor is a little bigger than the iPhone itself and is capable of giving the capabilities of a satellite phone to the Apple product. With SatSleeve, iPhone users can enjoy reliable connectivity even when they are outside the reach of traditional terrestrial networks.

iPhones usually access connectivity from terrestrial networks that have limited coverage areas. In comparison, Thuraya SatSleeve allows users to access connectivity anywhere in the world. It also works as an important mobile communications tool for users who take long expeditions into remote regions that cannot be reached by terrestrial mobile networks. This includes corporate users, especially enterprises that operate in remote regions of the world, as well as explorers, mountaineers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.

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Globecomm markets Access Maritime service platform to maritime customers

Globecomm recently began inviting owners, ship managers, officers, and crew to switch to the company's Access Maritime service platform for all their worldwide wireless and satellite communications needs.

A renowned provider of managed network communication solutions, Globecomm developed the Access Maritime platform to automatically bridge two separate groups of services: L-band services provided by MSS services like Inmarsat, Iridium, and Thuraya; and maritime VSAT, WiFi, and mobile access.

Vessels connected by the Globecomm platform will be assured of excellent voice, Internet from satellite, and e-mail services. They will also be able to access a range of high-value applications such as ship management tools and weather data.

Access Maritime delivers global coverage over multiple platforms. It empowers applications related to high-value IT utilities and ship management while maintaining flexibility and offering the ability to control costs. The platform supports voice, email, Internet from satellite, crew calling, vessel management, and IT utilities secure video chat applications. It also powers M2M solutions. Customers can be assured of technology support from Globecomm teams.

Thuraya, T-Mobile team up to provide roaming service in US

International mobile satellite services operator Thuraya Telecommunications Company partnered with American mobile operator T-Mobile, USA Inc. to establish its roaming service in the US.

Thuraya's mobile service in the US began on July 12. Subscribers can now use their Thuraya mobile numbers to roam throughout T-Mobile's US network, which covers 96 percent of the American population. They can also now make and take calls as well as text messages (SMS.) T-Mobile will later enable Thuraya's GmPRS roaming service on its network.

Thuraya will also deploy its latest and the most advanced satellite phone, the Thuraya XT-DUAL, to complement its roaming service. Featuring both satellite and GSM capabilities, the handheld allows users to alternate between the Thuraya satellite network and the locally-available GSM networks. The XT-DUAL handset also supports Tri-Band GSM frequencies, allowing it to be used in the US and Canada.

Mr. Tarek Shqairat, Director of Inter-Carrier Relations, Thuraya Telecommunications Company, explained that its roaming service partnerships ensure subscribers enjoy constant coverage even in places outside the Thuraya satellite network. "With more than 350 roaming partners worldwide," Mr. Shqairat said, "Thuraya is the only satellite operator offering roaming services over GSM networks." He added that "This facility is particularly beneficial to travelers who want to remain connected all the time."

Thuraya provides satellite communications solutions to customers from more than 140 countries all across the world. Its partner, T-Mobile USA, Inc, is part of Deutsche Telecom AG, one of the world's largest telecommunications companies.