NW European
Observer
I've been intrigued by this general space for awhile - the forthcoming era where global satellite coverage and affordable connection options will become ubiquitous. Not there yet, but between this new product, and the work Kymeta is doing, it seems like we will see it in the next few years.
Saw this yesterday, and surprised I do not see a thread on ExPo about it yet -- Yes, I know it is not available for purchase yet, but they are saying 2Q 2014, so only a few months out. Seems like a very interesting option due to the simple single device idea, and then you can connect up your phone, tablet, laptop, etc. Seems like the real question is -- how much will the monthly cost be, and how much data will you get....
http://www.iridium.com/products/Iridium-GO.aspx?productCategoryID=29
Overview
Iridium GO!™ is unlike anything the world has seen before. Powered by the world's furthest reaching network, this compact, rugged and portable unit creates the first ever reliable global connection for voice and data communications on up to 5 smartphones, laptops or tablets.
No matter where you are on the planet, Iridium GO! simplifies global communications for:
•Pilots, boaters and truckers
•Adventurers and explorers
•Remote residents and vacationers
•Emergency and first responders
•Global and business travellers
•Global enterprise
•Executives and diplomats
•Foreign missions
•Government and NGOs
•Military operations
•M2M applications
•Anyone out of cellular range
Performance
Simple
Simply flip up the integrated antenna and the battery-powered unit connects quickly and automatically to the Iridium LEO satellite constellation to create an anywhere Wi-Fi hotspot within approximately a 30.5-meter (100 foot) radius.
Versatile
Iridium GO! supports a full range of global communications, including:
•Voice calls
•Email access
•Applications
•Social networking
•Photo sharing
•SMS two-way
•GPS tracking
•SOS alert
Mobile
Iridium GO! is small enough to fit in your pocket and — like other Iridium devices — tough enough to withstand rain, sand, dust and rough use. It can easily be:
•Carried or stowed in your backpack, or
•Mounted in vehicles, aircraft and boats for mobile applications
Innovative
Combining the best that both satellite and cellular phones offer, Iridium GO! is the first in a whole new category of personal satellite connectivity devices. It is also a powerful development platform optimized for Iridium partners to build applications.
Affordable
Compatible with Apple® and Android™ operating systems and supported by affordable plans that keep voice and data costs reasonable, Iridium GO!:
•Leverages and extends your existing trusted devices,
•Allows connections to be shared among multiple users, and
•Eliminates roaming charges
Tech Specs
Dimensions:
•4.5"x 3.25" x 1.25"
Durability Specifications:
•Military-grade ruggedness (MIL-STD 810F)
•Ingress Protection (IP65)
Easy to Use:
•Stable, lay-flat design
•Flip up antenna
•Built-in menu/status display
Flexible
•Wi-Fi device ready
•App API for developers
•Robust accessory platform
Saw this yesterday, and surprised I do not see a thread on ExPo about it yet -- Yes, I know it is not available for purchase yet, but they are saying 2Q 2014, so only a few months out. Seems like a very interesting option due to the simple single device idea, and then you can connect up your phone, tablet, laptop, etc. Seems like the real question is -- how much will the monthly cost be, and how much data will you get....
http://www.iridium.com/products/Iridium-GO.aspx?productCategoryID=29
Overview
Iridium GO!™ is unlike anything the world has seen before. Powered by the world's furthest reaching network, this compact, rugged and portable unit creates the first ever reliable global connection for voice and data communications on up to 5 smartphones, laptops or tablets.
No matter where you are on the planet, Iridium GO! simplifies global communications for:
•Pilots, boaters and truckers
•Adventurers and explorers
•Remote residents and vacationers
•Emergency and first responders
•Global and business travellers
•Global enterprise
•Executives and diplomats
•Foreign missions
•Government and NGOs
•Military operations
•M2M applications
•Anyone out of cellular range
Performance
Simple
Simply flip up the integrated antenna and the battery-powered unit connects quickly and automatically to the Iridium LEO satellite constellation to create an anywhere Wi-Fi hotspot within approximately a 30.5-meter (100 foot) radius.
Versatile
Iridium GO! supports a full range of global communications, including:
•Voice calls
•Email access
•Applications
•Social networking
•Photo sharing
•SMS two-way
•GPS tracking
•SOS alert
Mobile
Iridium GO! is small enough to fit in your pocket and — like other Iridium devices — tough enough to withstand rain, sand, dust and rough use. It can easily be:
•Carried or stowed in your backpack, or
•Mounted in vehicles, aircraft and boats for mobile applications
Innovative
Combining the best that both satellite and cellular phones offer, Iridium GO! is the first in a whole new category of personal satellite connectivity devices. It is also a powerful development platform optimized for Iridium partners to build applications.
Affordable
Compatible with Apple® and Android™ operating systems and supported by affordable plans that keep voice and data costs reasonable, Iridium GO!:
•Leverages and extends your existing trusted devices,
•Allows connections to be shared among multiple users, and
•Eliminates roaming charges
Tech Specs
Dimensions:
•4.5"x 3.25" x 1.25"
Durability Specifications:
•Military-grade ruggedness (MIL-STD 810F)
•Ingress Protection (IP65)
Easy to Use:
•Stable, lay-flat design
•Flip up antenna
•Built-in menu/status display
Flexible
•Wi-Fi device ready
•App API for developers
•Robust accessory platform