Satellite sleeve for iPhones

Thuraya Telecommunications Company has announced that the Thuraya SatSleeve, a device which brings satellite connectivity to the iPhone is now available in Africa.

According to a recent report by KPMG on business continuity, IT and data disruptions are African business leaders’ main concern and IT disaster recovery is the most implemented business continuity management component. Thuraya’s reliable satellite network provides seamless connectivity for both enterprises and individuals when they need it most.

The Thuraya SatSleeve represents a significant breakthrough and game changer in the mobile satellite industry as the world’s first product to offer easy integration of a smartphone with satellite connectivity ‚Äî delivered over Thuraya’s extensive satellite network. Only slightly larger than the iPhone itself, the compact adaptor provides users with the ability to turn their iPhone into a satellite smartphone that allows them to have reliable connectivity beyond the coverage of traditional terrestrial networks.

The Thuraya IP+ is the fastest and lightest mobile satellite broadband terminal available in the market. Without compromising on portability, it is designed to achieve extremely fast IP speeds, ensuring quick and reliable access to broadband data services over Thuraya’s satellite network. Thuraya IP+ can enable a wide range of applications including live high quality video broadcasting, web browsing, email, social media, data transfer and VoIP as well as access to corporate networks from remote locations.

Speaking on the eve of AfricaCom, Thuraya’s Vice President of Market Development, T. Sanford Jewett, said: ‚”The launch of Thuraya’s SatSleeve represents a major innovation in the satellite industry. This is the first consumer-friendly mobile satellite phone ever launched and it dramatically improves access to satellite telephony for travelers and remote workers alike. iPhone users now have a versatile and affordable means of calling, texting and connecting apps via satellite from the world’s most remote locations.‚”

The Thuraya IP+ satellite broadband terminal weighs in at a mere 1.4 kilograms and is smaller than a regular laptop. The unit can be rapidly deployed to support high-bandwidth applications at speeds of up to 444kbps on standard IP and 384kbps on streaming IP with a built-antenna. The terminal can provide asymmetric streaming capabilities, enabling users to control their upload and download speeds to optimize bandwidth costs.

Thuraya IP+ is ideal for various mission-critical operations such as newsgathering, telemedicine and disaster response. Thuraya’s congestion-free satellite network helps to further ensure uninterrupted mobile broadband access. From supporting offshore operations to establishing critical field communication links, Thuraya IP+ provides the portable connectivity required by Thuraya’s customers who live and work beyond the reach of traditional terrestrial networks.

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