Inmarsat launches IsatPhone Pro

LONDON, UK: Inmarsat, the leading provider of global mobile satellite communications services, has launched its new global handheld satellite phone, the IsatPhone Pro. Retailing for as little as US$500, the phone will be a “game changer” in this specialist market.

The new service, Inmarsat’s first global handheld, offers an unmatched specification at the most competitive price point in the market. Extensive testing has shown that IsatPhone Pro has the market’s longest battery life and the most robust handset. These and other market-leading services and features are now available at a suggested retail price of US$699, with promotional prices expected to be around US$500-600.

Andrew Sukawaty, chairman and CEO of Inmarsat, said: “With the promotional incentives at launch, our $500-600 IsatPhone Pro is a 'game changer'. This phone gives us price and performance leadership for the remote environment market.

“We have today entered the handheld satellite phone market with a global handset. It targets customers served by Inmarsat for decades, both at sea and in the most remote parts of the global landmass. It is supported by our existing satellite network and it uses proven technology customized for use in these environments.

“The IsatPhone Pro is tailor-made for tough use. Rugged, splash and dust proof, and with long battery life, it offers global service from day one. This is the first satellite phone to be built for the Inmarsat network from the ground-up, responding to customer needs, for use in harsh environments.

“Today we have delivered a robust, affordable, professional handset for global users. IsatPhone Pro joins our award-winning portfolio of data and voice terminals. It gives us a full range of services for remote environment communications use.”

IsatPhone Pro offers up to 8 hours talk time and up to 100 hours on standby. The handset has secured an IP54 rating and is dust, splash and shock resistant. It is also capable of operating from -20 degrees C to +55 degrees C, which is the widest temperature range of any satellite phone.

Targeted primarily at professional users in the government, media, aid, oil and gas, mining and construction sectors, IsatPhone Pro offers high-quality satellite telephony, text and email messaging. Location data can also be viewed and sent in a text message.

The unique design of IsatPhone Pro, including a fully-manoeuvrable antenna, allows the handset to be placed on its side for easy hands-free use via Bluetooth. IsatPhone Pro has an intuitive GSM-style interface with a high-visibility colour screen, and a larger keypad for easy dialling in gloves.

The distribution partners for IsatPhone Pro are AST, China Telecom, Evosat, Korea Telecom, MCN, MVS, Network Innovations, NSSL, RRSat, Satcom Global, Singtel, Stratos and Vizada.