[Satnews] Optus Satellite announces the availability of Thuraya’s new generation of SatSleeve models, the SatSleeve+ and SatSleeve Hotspot, effectively delivering 100 percent mobile coverage across Australia, where line of sight to the satellite exists.

Thuraya's SatSleeve+.

SatSleeve+ connects to a range of iOS or Android devices from Apple, Samsung, HTC, LG, Sony and Huawei, and enables users to turn their handset into a satellite phone via a SatSleeve app. The SatSleeve allows calls to a mobile number from a user’s contacts simply and if users are out of mobile range, the call will be diverted to the satellite phone free of charge, with the diversion set-up a simple, one-off process.

The SatSleeve was launched in 2013 and pioneered ‘bring-your-own device’ in the satellite industry. Users can access voice, SMS and data services with the sleeve, providing there is a direct line of sight to the satellite. Businesses in the transport and logistics, construction, resources, forestry and agricultural sectors, as well as local, state and federal government departments continue to adopt the SatSleeves.

The new SatSleeve models use Wi-Fi (rather than Bluetooth) to connect with the smartphone and are controlled through the all new, free SatSleeve Hotspot app. WiFi connectivity means Bluetooth accessories such as vehicle hands-free systems and headsets can now be used when making satellite calls.

Separately, the SatSleeve Hotspot is designed to be act as a Wi-Fi hotspot service to deliver voice calls, as well as SMS and enhanced data to a smartphone or tablet.

Executive Comment

Paul Sheridan, Vice President of Optus Satellite, said, “In a country as vast as ours, living and working in remote areas is increasingly common. We know that the resources and mining sector boom has seen large workforces stationed in remote locations. With a SatSleeve, people can stay in touch when outside of mobile range. It acts like the home WiFi, but delivers connectivity via satellite rather than a fixed line,” said Mr Sheridan.