Thuraya SatSleeve enables iPhone users to turn their handsets into a satellite phone with a simple slide and click. Users can easily access all of their contacts in their iPhone address book to make satellite calls and send SMSs, without the bulk or inconvenience of carrying a second device. Optus’ 3G mobile network now reaches an extensive 98 per cent of Australia’s population. With the Thuraya SatSleeve, customers working in or travelling through the most remote areas of the country will be able to affordably add a satellite voice and SMS connection to their iPhone. The Thuraya SatSleeve also doubles as a backup battery for the iPhone to enable extended talk and standby time, so users can keep in touch for longer, until they reach the next town or station.

Users can make phone calls, send SMS messages via Thuraya’s satellite network, access emails, social media, and instant messaging apps like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, WhatsApp and others. Post news updates, chat via messaging apps, send and receive email from remote locations in satellite mode and Thuraya’s satellite network in over 140 countries.

Safety in remote areas is paramount, so the Thuraya SatSleeve features an SOS button that allows users to make a call to a pre-programmed number of their choice, even if the iPhone is not connected to the SatSleeve. Connecting to Thuraya satellites, customers will be able to get satellite phone coverage right across Australia, Asia, Middle East, Europe and most of Africa with one integrated device. The Thuraya SatSleeve snaps onto the back of an iPhone 4 or 4S and can be quickly activated via the SatSleeve app, available as a free download from the iTunes store. An adapter for the iPhone 5 and 5s will be available for customers soon.