Inmarsat, the UK-based leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, has unveiled a complete specification for its forthcoming global handheld, IsatPhone Pro.

Focusing on the fundamentals of what users want in a satellite phone, it will offer the ultimate combination of global coverage, long battery life, robustness, reliable network connectivity, clear voice quality, ease of use, and a highly competitive price, a statement said.

IsatPhone Pro will have the longest battery life on the market, with up to 8 hours talk time and up to 100 hours on standby, according to the statement.

It is dust, splash and shock resistant, with an ingress protection rating of IP54, and is capable of operating at the most extreme temperatures, from -20 degrees Celsius to 55 degrees.

It is the only satellite phone to support Bluetooth. The handset can be placed on its side, with a fully-manoeuvrable antenna, allowing easy hands-free use.

IsatPhone Pro has an intuitive GSM-style interface with a high-visibility colour screen, and a larger keypad for easy dialing in gloves.

Inmarsat also confirmed that the suggested retail price for IsatPhone Pro is $699, although pricing promotions are expected to bring the end-user price to $500-600.  Retail airtime rates will be competitive at around $1 per minute.

“IsatPhone Pro raises the game in the satellite phone market,” said Helen Stalker, commercial director of global satellite phone services at Inmarsat.

“It works in just about any conditions, from rain storms to dust storms, from tropical humidity to freezing blizzard; it has a long battery life you can rely on when you’re in the middle of nowhere; a totally reliable global network connection with clear voice quality; and it’s something that anyone can pick up and use.  And you get all this at the most competitive price point in the market,” she added.

“What’s more, it comes from Inmarsat, the market leader with the only global satellite network with an operational life into the 2020s.  This really is the ultimate combination.”

The IsatPhone Pro is planned for launch in June, the statement said. – TradeArabia News Service