[Satnews] Thuraya Telecommunications has unveiled a new generation of SatSleeve models, offering greater choice, improved quality and a new hotspot option.

When SatSleeve was launched in 2013, the product pioneered the “bring your own device” (BYOD) concept in the satellite industry. Now, Thuraya goes further with two new model, and has identified a clear consumer target market for the range, running alongside core government, media, energy, and NGO sectors.

Thuraya's SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot.

SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot will appeal to travelers, adventurers and outdoor sportspeople, or simply to consumers who want the assurance that their smartphone will connect even when terrestrial networks are unavailable or damaged. Thuraya will market SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot through existing distribution partners; innovative agreements it has developed with mobile network operators (MNOs) in key markets; and new channels generated through online retailer Expansys.

SatSleeve+ features a new voice routing system that improves on the sound quality, and can be used with a wider range of smartphone models than before. It comes with a universal smartphone adapter, broadening its appeal to a larger number of smartphone owners than was previously possible. The adapter also allows users to switch between handsets, so owners of more than one smartphone do not need to buy additional kit.

SatSleeve Hotspot’s stand creates a portable satellite Wi-Fi hotspot, giving people satellite connectivity without physically docking their smartphone to a unit, and freedom to move indoors. A SatSleeve Hotspot user can leave the stand outside, stay indoors or in their vehicle, and use their smartphone in satellite mode inside. The SatSleeve Hotspot is the smallest, lightest, and most capable in the industry.

Both models allow users to make calls, use messaging applications, update social networks, send and receive email and SMS, and access apps. They also come with an additional safety feature—a programmable SOS button that works even if the smartphone isn’t connected. This convenient function lets customers call a predefined number of their choice.

Thuraya SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot offer fast, simple connectivity on the move, in remote areas normally beyond the reach of smartphones, or in urban areas where terrestrial networks have become unavailable or unreliable. Connection is easy, gaining access to Thuraya’s vast coverage area spanning Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Australia. SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot work either with a Thuraya SIM card or with a GSM SIM card from more than 360 Thuraya roaming partners worldwide.

Executive Comment

Thuraya’s Chief Executive Officer, Samer Halawi, said, “SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot offer double the choice, and demonstrate triple innovation: the models themselves are new; the way we’re selling them online across Europe is groundbreaking; and agreements with new MNOs in key geographies will bring us into direct contact with important customer markets. Thuraya’s purpose is to save and improve lives, and these products will allow more people to be connected when and where they need it. MNOs around the world can offer their customers a first-of-a-kind service that delivers constant 100% geographical coverage. This sets the MNO apart from their competitors, and generates a higher average revenue per user (ARPU). Retailers can for the first time offer an exciting product that complements their smartphone offerings.”