The AT&T integrated solution will redefine the mobile satellite services experience by providing users with easy access to both cellular and satellite networks through a cutting-edge handset that is both smaller and more feature-rich than previous satellite devices. The TerreStar Genus dual-mode cellular/satellite smartphone gives users the option to access theTerreStar satellite network when AT&T’s cellular wireless network is unavailable.

Powered by Windows Mobile OS, the TerreStar Genus smartphone supports GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA network with satellite voice and data capability in a standard smartphone size and form factor. The device also comes with a 2.6” touchscreen, WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS.

The AT&T integrated cellular/satellite solution is expected to be available in the first quarter of 2010.

TerreStar Genus Specifications:

• Size: 118.8 mm x 64.8 mm x 19.25 mm
• Display: 2.6-inch touch screen, QVGA resolution
• Satellite & Terrestrial: 2000-2010 MHz, 2190-2200 MHz S-band
• Terrestrial: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
• OS: Windows Mobile 6.5 Professional
• 100MB internal memory
• 3 megapixel camera
• QWERTY Keyboard
• Bluetooth
• WiFi
• GPS
• Micro-USB connector
• microSD card slot
• 1400 mAh battery

The 9555 design includes a menu-driven interface, making it very user-friendly for customers. Soft keys are utilized to allow for flexible menu choices and ease of navigation. Key features of the 9555 handset include:

• Lighter weight design – 27 percent lighter than 9505A handset
• Compact – 30 percent smaller than 9505A handset
• Internally retractable antenna for compact carrying
• Illuminated, weather-resistant keypad redesigned for ease-of-use
• A menu configurable in any of 21 languages
• Enhanced functionality for improved integration of messaging (short email and SMS)
• Additional address book fields for more phone numbers, email addresses and notes
• Programmable international codes for automatic dialing
• Built-in help function
• Integrated speakerphone
• Mini-USB data port
• Standby time up to 30 hours
• Talk time up to 4 hours

The 9555 handset will be available from Iridium service partners starting in November 2008.

A little known company called Elektrobit has come out with a unique phone that could use GSM in the city, 3G or Wi-Fi when you need it, and turn into a satellite phone when take that safari trip. The phone, which was shown at the CTIA show in Las Vegas this week, strangely looks so much like the RIM Bold or a Motorola Q. However, it is actually a Windows Mobile phone. The phone has no visible antenna, it uses a 300 MHz STN 8815 Nomadik chip, has a 3-megapixel camera, and is supposed to get 4 hours of 3G talk time and about 2 hours of satellite talk time.

[via NewLaunches]

Paul Sheridan, Head of Optus Satellite said, “This partnership means that customers in regional areas will no longer need to carry around multiple or bulky handsets. With the GSM/Satellite dual mode handset customers will be able to use the same phone on both the Optus GSM and Thuraya Satellite networks.

the Thuraya next generation single mode Satellite Only handset and the dual mode GSM/Satellite handset, packed with feature rich applications and capabilities including:

• world’s smallest, lightest and compact Satellite phone
• Network selection between the Optus GSM and Thuraya Satellite networks (dual mode handset only)
• Feature rich applications including; SMS, Built in GPS and Camera (dual mode handset only), as well as the ability to connect a Bluetooth device

Optus plans to offer the Thuraya Satellite Only and dual mode GSM/Satellite mobile handsets nationally through Optus MobileSat dealerships and Optus Business sales channels in August and continue roll out to Optus World stores and Optus Wholesale partners in late 2008.

Additionally, EB and TerreStar are working to enable device manufacturers to rapidly bring to market the world’s first quad-band GSM and tri-band WCDMA/HSPA smartphone with integrated all-IP satellite-terrestrial voice and data capabilities. Initial commercial availability of the reference design is planned for H1 2009. This reference design also includes:

• IP-based satellite phone using high-speed packet data;
• first satellite-terrestrial smartphone with a touch screen and a full QWERTY keyboard;
• first satellite-terrestrial smartphone based on Windows Mobile operating system, with competitive service offerings, including: SMS, MMS, IM, Email, Push to Talk and Location Based Services (LBS).
• End-user memory: 100 MB
• Compact form factor: 4.7 inch x 2.5 inch x 0.8/0.6 inch
• Integrated Bluetooth, WiFi, USB and GPS connectivity

via [phonemag]