AT&T has announced plans to work with TerreStar Networks to offer an integrated smartphone mobility system that will combine primary cellular wireless connectivity with the ability to connect to a satellite network as a backup, using one phone number and one smartphone device.
AT&T claims that the integration will provide users with access to both cellular and satellite networks through an enhanced handset that is both smaller and has more features than previous satellite devices.
Reportedly, the new TerreStar Genus dual-mode cellular/satellite smartphone gives users the option to access the TerreStar satellite network when AT&T’s cellular wireless network is unavailable. AT&T wireless users will be able to access expanded voice and data coverage in the US, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands and in territorial waters.
The TerreStar Genus smartphone combines GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA terrestrial wireless capability with satellite voice and data capability in a smartphone size and form factor. It runs on Windows Mobile OS and includes features such as a 2.6-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi, bluetooth and GPS.
Joe Lueckenhoff, senior vice president for product management, wireline and mobility services at AT&T Business Solutions, said: AT&T continues to drive the emergence of new categories of devices and applications that are enhanced by wireless network connectivity. Today’s announcement is the latest addition to our enterprise mobility portfolio. It helps our enterprise and government customers consolidate communications platforms, reduce their telecom expenditures and have communications access on the go.
