Inmarsat has announced the global launch of IsatHub, a satellite connectivity service for smartphones and tablets. The service offers a standard IP data speed of up to 240/384kbps (send/receive).
With the IsatHub service, anyone can surf the internet, access their apps, text or talk using their own iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch or Android smart device, even when they’re thousands of kilometers from a terrestrial fixed or mobile network.
Accessing the IsatHub service involves using the Wideye iSavi terminal from AddValue Technologies, which is approximately the size of a paperback book, and the IsatHub control app, downloaded from the App Store or Google Play.
The user’s smart device connects via Wi-Fi to the terminal and a choice of easy-to-use audio cues, LED guides or ‘pointing assistance’ in the control app enables them to line up rapidly with the satellite.
Once connected to Inmarsat’s powerful 3G satellite network, the Wideye iSavi creates a secure, personal network with a range of up to 30m (100ft). The terminal will allow multiple authorized users to wirelessly use Isathub’s voice and data services at the same time.
Downloading the IsatHub voice app provides access to its dedicated, high quality voice line and text messaging – even on Wi-Fi only devices.
IsatHub is delivered through the Inmarsat-4 (I-4) satellite constellation, which is used by governments, businesses, broadcasters, humanitarian agencies and many others. The I-4 fleet of satellites operates globally with an average availability of 99.9 per cent.