Smart now offers the SatSleeve for Android, SatSleeve for iPhone and XT, a stand-alone satellite phone in its select stores. Showing the devices during the press launch at Makati Shanri-la are (from left to right) Thuraya VP for Distribution Bilal El Hamoui, Smart Global Access Group head Tina Z. Mariano and Smart Public Affairs Group head Ramon Isberto
On February 20, Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart) commercially brought satellite communications to a wider market with the launch of SmartSAT.
Under Smart’s highly anticipated service, SmartSAT, SatSleeve—a portable dock that transform smartphones into satellite devices—is now offered.
The versions offered are compatible with iPhone 5, iPhone 5s handsets, and Samsung Galaxy S4, respectively. Smart also offers the XT, a stand-alone satellite phone unit that is specially made to withstand tough environments.
Both the SatSleeve and XT give users access to voice calls, emails, text messages, and data services even in areas where cellular coverage is limited.
The devices offered under the SmartSAT package is worth PHP 38,500, inclusive of a special satellite SIM with an initial airtime credit load of about USD 225 valid for one year.
“With SmartSAT, the company’s satellite services arm is branching out of its niche in the maritime industry and is going into new markets to benefit from satellite communications,” said Charles A. Lim, Smart EVP and Head of Wireless Consumer Business.
Furthermore, “SmartSAT seeks to empower Filipinos with boundless connectivity and addresses a need that was dramatically highlighted by recent disasters,” said Orlando B. Vea, Smart Chief Wireless Advisor.
A partnership forged in September 2013, Smart offers both devices with mobile satellite services provider Thuraya Telecommunications Company (Thuraya). The deal expanded Smart’s satellite coverage to over 160 countries or two-thirds of the world, including major sealanes in Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Indian Ocean.
To know more about the Smart Sat, please visit www.smart.com.ph.