Thuraya launches SatSleeve for Android
The world’s first and only satellite smartphone adaptor now available for
the Samsung Galaxy S3 and S4
DUBAI, UAE, January 15, 2014 – Thuraya Telecommunications Company, a leading Mobile
Satellite Services (MSS) operator, today launched the latest edition of the Thuraya
SatSleeve designed for Android-based smartphones. Compatible with the Samsung Galaxy S3
and S4, the new game-changing product allows Samsung Galaxy users to turn their own
smartphone into a satellite phone to make phone calls, send SMS messages and access apps
via Thuraya’s satellite network when they are unable to connect to a terrestrial GSM
network.
The Thuraya SatSleeve eliminates the need for carrying a separate satellite phone. Users
only need to dock their Android smartphone into the Thuraya SatSleeve and operate it
normally via the Thuraya Satellite network. Its built-in SOS button allows users to call one
predefined number even without their smartphone attached. Additionally, users can send
SMS messages, send and receive email, and access popular social media and instant
messaging apps such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and WhatsApp, among others.
Randy Roberts, Vice President of Innovation at Thuraya, said: “This latest release of the
SatSleeve illustrates Thuraya’s focus on market needs by addressing the installed base of
Android devices and enables us to provide easy access to satellite services for our Android
customers. Thuraya is progressively working to provide our users with flexible choices for
their satellite communication needs when they are travelling or working from areas
unserved by terrestrial networks. Whether our customers need connectivity through voice or
data services, we are there to keep them connected.”
“The launch of the SatSleeve for Android demonstrates Thuraya’s ability to deliver marketdriven
products to reach even more end-users. The lines between MSS and consumer
technology sector are blurring and we are proud to lead this change,” said Alex Lachner,
Senior Product Manager, Voice Services at Thuraya.
Thuraya SatSleeve enables users to enjoy ubiquitous coverage in the most remote
environments that are not served or that are under-served by terrestrial GSM networks. The
device also serves as a security backup for users who are operating in remote locations and
in areas where natural or man-made disasters can render terrestrial communications
unavailable. SatSleeve customers include corporate users from all industries, government
personnel, explorers, mountaineers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The SatSleeve can be
used on the Thuraya network either with a Thuraya SIM card or with a standard GSM SIM
card available from one of Thuraya’s GSM roaming partners. This makes the Thuraya
SatSleeve highly flexible with the ability to be suited to the users’ individual needs.
The Thuraya SatSleeve for Android is available from all Thuraya Service Partners from
January 15, 2014. For more information on the Thuraya SatSleeve, including pricing and
airtime plans please check with your local Thuraya Service Partner.
About Thuraya Telecommunications Company
Thuraya Telecommunications Company is an industry leading MSS operator and a global telecommunication provider offering innovative communications solutions to a variety of sectors including energy, broadcast media, maritime, military and humanitarian NGO. Thuraya’s superior network enables clear communications and uninterrupted coverage across two thirds of the globe by satellite and across the whole planet through its unique GSM roaming capabilities. The company’s diverse range of technologically superior and highly reliable mobile satellite handsets and broadband devices provide ease of use, value, quality and efficiency. Thuraya remains committed