Inmarsat’s first ever global handheld satellite phone, the IsatPhone Pro, has been officially launched, at the CommunicAsia2010 event in Singapore. The IsatPhone Pro offers up to eight hours talk time and up to 100 hours on standby over the Inmarsat global satellite network, with a maritime docking station for the unit expected to be released shortly.
Priced at under $700 the company is confident that take-up of the unit will be strong, across its key markets.
"It targets customers served by Inmarsat for decades, both at sea and in the most remote parts of the global landmass,” said Andrew Sukawaty, Inmarsat CEO.
“It is supported by our existing satellite network and it uses proven technology customised for use in these environments.
"The IsatPhone Pro is tailor-made for tough use. Rugged, splash and dust proof, and with long battery life, it offers global service from day one. This is the first satellite phone to be built for the Inmarsat network from the ground-up - responding to customer needs - for use in harsh environments.”
The phone offers satellite telephony, text and e-mail messaging, while location data can also be viewed and sent in a text message. It features a fully-manoeuvrable antenna, allowing the handset to be placed on its side for hands-free use via Bluetooth.
