Although satellite phone systems can be a great choice for those who live in rural areas, they are often very expensive to build and uncompetitive in populated areas. Today, leading providers include Iridium, Globalstar, Inmarsat, Ellipso, Thuraya, and Verizon. Some models feature CDMA or AMPS network compatibility, while others are designed to provide access to local GSM networks in Africa, Central Asia, and India.
Iridium GO!
The Iridium GO satellite phone system has been designed to be small enough to fit in your pocket and rugged enough to withstand rough use. You can also mount it on your vehicle, boat, or airplane. PredictWind, the company that manufactures the satellite phone system, sells spare batteries and other accessories for the device. It can even be purchased online from Amazon.com. For more information, visit their website.
The Iridium GO satellite phone system offers a combination of voice and data capabilities from your smartphone. It can be shared by up to five people. It can also create an instant Wi-Fi hotspot. You can use the phone anywhere you’d like, and it’s easy to pack, too. It’s like having your own personal global cell tower, but a lot smaller. It can fit in your pocket or backpack, and it’s rugged enough to stand up to rugged conditions.
The Iridium GO satellite phone system also allows you to send SMS messages. You can also send and receive text messages and emails from your phone. You can use the OneMail app to download full messages and header information. For even more flexibility, you can use OCENS service packages. Some of these services allow you to access web compression, access to websites optimized for low-bandwidth connections, and read news and data. There’s also an email app available for Iridium GO. However, you’ll need to sign up for a specific email account, and set up forwarding rules before leaving.
The Iridium GO satellite phone system is a great choice for traveling or for people with limited mobile data plans. Unlimited data is also an option, with one of the best airtime plans available for less than US$125 per month. In addition, you can opt for unlimited SMS messages, and no contract. Iridium GO devices automatically renew on the first of each month. In addition, you can also cancel your plan at any time. You won’t have to pay for a re-connection fee, which is another great reason to use the Iridium GO satellite phone system.
Globalstar GSP1700
The Globalstar GSP1700 satellite phone system is designed for people who travel extensively, especially on recreational boats or in areas with poor cell service. This small, lightweight phone features a backlit color display, outdoor daytime viewing, and a long-life battery. Available in gray, red, and copper colors, this phone offers a sleek, compact design that fits in your hand comfortably. Listed below are some features of the Globalstar GSP1700.
The Globalstar GSP1700 is the smallest and lightest satellite phone on the market, yet it provides remarkably high-quality voice quality and data speeds. It also features Position Location Service and local numbers for easy communication. The GSP-1700 is compatible with Globalstar’s Globalstar Data Kit, which is available separately. Users of the GSP-1700 can send key information back to their head office with the use of an optional Bluetooth module.
The GSP1700 satellite phone system has excellent coverage throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe. It uses a second-generation constellation of 32 Low Earth Orbit satellites to provide comprehensive coverage throughout the snowbelt of North America. This means it can work just about anywhere. Users have reported minimal call interruptions and no perceptible voice delay. They are also satisfied with the high quality of sound and video transmissions, and the low cost of airtime.