SMART Communications, Inc. earlier launched the SmartSAT, a service that brings the benefits of satellite communication to a broader consumer market.
Currently there are 2 products under SmartSAT, these are the SatSleeve that transforms your smartphone (Samsung S4 & iPhone 5/5s) into a satellite phone and the XT, a stand-alone phone that is specially made to withstand harsh environments. Both the SatSleeve and XT allows you to call, send SMS and emails, and enjoy data services even in places without cellular coverage.
“œWith SmartSAT, the company’s satellite services arm is branching out of its niche in the maritime industry and is going into new markets to benefit from satellite communications,” said Charles A. Lim, Smart EVP and Head of Wireless Consumer Business.
“œSMART targets critical and demanding fields such as the media, the military and the country’s disaster and emergency response agencies. We are also catering to business groups and even private individuals who need the security of having a back-up or enhanced mobile coverage”
The SmartSat coverage will reach 2/3 of the world expanding Smart’s satellite coverage to 160 countries including major sea lanes in Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Middle East, Africa, Europe and Indian Ocean.
Both the SatSleeve and XT is being offered for Php 38,500 inclusive of satellite SIM with an initial airtime credit load of about $225 or around Php 10,000.
SMART SatSleeve and XT Satellite Phone Specs
SATSLEEVE |
XT |
|
Stand-alone Satellite Phone |
No |
Yes |
Compatible phones |
iPhone 5/5s Samsung S4 |
n/a |
Service Supported |
Voice, SMS, GmPRS Data – Application based |
Voice, SMS, GmPRS Data |
Operating System |
iOS/Android |
n/a |
Ruggedized |
No |
Yes (IP5/IK03) |
Interface Supported |
Bluetooth and Wifi |
Data cable via USB connector |
Contacts |
From the iPhone via bluetooth |
Programmable on the terminal |
SOS Button |
SOS Calling predefined number |
n/a |
Dimensions |
138 x 69 x 20 mm |
128 x 53 x 26.5mm |
Weight |
171g (with battery) |
193g |
Battery |
3.7V Li-ion, 2440mAh |
3.7V Li-ion 2520mAh |
Standby time |
up to 36 hours |
up to 80 hours |
Talk time |
up to 3 hours |
up to 6 hours |
Satellite data speed |
Download 60 kbps, Upload 15 kbps (GmPRS) |
Download 60 kbps, Upload 15 kbps (GmPRS) |
Check out below for the SmartSAT packages.
Charging |
Prepaid |
Package Price (Vat Inc.) |
P 38,500.00 |
Initial Preload Credit |
US $ 225.00 |
Rates | |
Calls to Philippines(SMART/SUN/PLDT) |
$0.57 |
Call to Philippines (other networks) |
$0.80 |
IDD Calls | |
Band 1Band 2Band 3Band 4Band 5 (Catch All) |
$0.57 $0.80 $1.15 $3.45 $5.75 |
SMS Rate |
$0.23 (per 160 characters) |
Data Rate |
US$0.015/10Kb |
Incoming charge |
Free |
Call to Customer Care |
Free |
Annual Subscription Fee |
US$250.00 |