One way to get guaranteed cellphone coverage anywhere in the world is to own a satellite phone
, and now you can transform your existing smartphone into a satellite phone by just sliding it into a case. Yes, that’s right, you no longer need a dedicated satellite phone. What you need is a Thuraya SatSleeve.
What is a best satellite phone?
- Best Satellite Phone Overall: Iridium Extreme 9575 Satellite Phone.
- Best Budget: Globalstar GSP-1700.
- Best for International Travel: Inmarsat IsatPhone 2.
- Best Combo: Thuraya X5-Touch.
- Best for Backpacking: Garmin inReach Mini.
What companies offer satellite phone service?
The big three providers of satellite phone service are
Iridium, Globalstar, and Inmarsat
. Iridium has the highest service prices because they offer the most comprehensive global service, effectively covering the entire planet with a network of 66 low-Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites.
Are satellite phones worth it?
Reliable –
even with cellular phone outages, satellite phones will still work and are unaffected by the outage
. Most satellite phones also have awesome battery packs that does not easily run out, so it really is a reliable communication tool. User-Friendly – satellite phones are not as complicated as regular phones.
Are satellite phones illegal?
The use of satellite devices may be prohibited or restricted in certain areas
. Taking the device into areas where it is prohibited may result in its confiscation. Always obey the local laws and regulations on the use of these devices. If you are unsure, please contact the local customs office.
How much does a satellite phone cost per minute?
The cost of making voice calls from a satellite phone varies from around
$0.15 to $2 per minute
, while calling them from landlines and regular mobile phones is more expensive. Costs for data transmissions (particularly broadband data) can be much higher.
Can satellite phones be tracked?
Most modern satellite phones can be tracked by their own GPS systems
. Although it is possible to trace a satellite phone through its radio emissions, this would require a trained technician and specialist equipment. Many satellite phones also have automatic location sharing.
Do satellite phones have Internet?
Can I get Internet on a satellite phone?
Satellite phones do not provide sufficient data connection to use Internet services on your device
. For Internet use we recommend satellite Internet devices like BGAN explorer 510 or IsatHub Isavi.
How long do satellite phones last?
How long does each battery last?
About 3.5 hours of straight talk time, 19 hours of standby, and if the phone is off and just turned on intermittently, the battery can last up to a week
.
Why are sat phones so expensive?
Handsets are inexpensive and offer near-cellular voice quality, but handset to handset, and handset to landline costs can be high
because of the way calls are processed between satellites and ground stations
.
Do satellite phone minutes expire?
Prepaid satellite phone airtime expires within 1-24 months
. Airtime is paid for in advance, a good option for those on a fixed budget. Most cards can be refilled online, when you need more airtime.
Who is the largest satellite phone provider?
Globalstar
is the largest satellite phone service provider of hand held satellite phones in the world. GlobalCom’s continued partnership with Globalstar will continue to provide some of the highest quality products available on the market.
Will satellite phones work after an EMP?
Satellite phones do not have built in EMP protection
, but you can protect it by placing it in a well insulated metal container that acts as a Faraday cage. EMP protection bags are also available on Amazon, these work great but make sure you choose proven and tested quality.
Can I turn my cell phone into a satellite phone?
When you’re in the middle of nowhere and want to place a call, get info on storm warnings, or check your email, all you have to do is
open the Iridium Go app on your iOS or android tablet or smartphone, flip up the device’s integrated antenna and the connection immediately converts into a satellite transmission with a
…
Can satellite phones work anywhere?
Although these marvels of modern technology
do work virtually anywhere
, there are some locations where you might not be able to use your sat phone or satellite push-to-talk system.
Can I use my iPhone as a satellite phone?
You can equip your current iPhone to function as a satellite phone so it uses a direct connection
. No need to purchase a new and likely inferior phone, instead just check out the Thuraya SatSleeve.
Which countries do not allow satellite phones?
- Burma/Myanmar. Burma has experienced a long period of unrest under a military government that has only recently been replaced with democratically-elected leadership. …
- Chad. …
- China. …
- Cuba. …
- India. …
- Libya. …
- Nigeria. …
- North Korea.
What does a satellite phone do?
Satellite phones are designed specifically for telephonic communications, meaning that
most allow you to make and receive calls
— and that’s about it. However, newer models are coming out with access to Internet in certain “hotspots” and the capability to send and receive text messages.
What is the difference between a cell phone and a satellite phone?
When it comes to functionality, cell phones do have a distinct advantage over satellite phones.
Sat phones are designed specifically for telephonic communications, meaning that most allow you to make and receive calls
— and that’s about it.
Where is Thuraya located?
Thuraya is a regional mobile satellite phone provider. The company is based in the
United Arab Emirates
; it provides mobile coverage to more than 110 countries in Europe, the Middle East, North, Central and East Africa, Asia and Australia.
