Satellite connectivity is becoming a popular feature in modern smartphones. So far, however, only US brand Apple and Chinese tech giant Huawei have launched mainstream handsets with such connectivity.
However, Motorola launched a consumer-specific rugged smartphone with satellite connectivity support last February, called the Motorola Defy 2. The Lenovo-subsidiary brand also offers its satellite-enabled messenger, Defy Link. And now a step ahead, Motorola is about to launch a new phone module with support for two-way satellite calling and text messaging.
Motorola's new two-way satellite connectivity module is hitting the market
Motorola has announced that it will release
the new Tiantong satellite phone module today (August 25). It will support
two-way satellite phone calls and text messaging, with a single click, users
will be able to make satellite calls on their phones. As the name of the module
indicates, the satellite link will be provided by China's space-based
information infrastructure and Tiantong-1, the Chinese alternative to the
British Inmarsat network. Notably, Huawei's Mate 60 series will also use the
same satellite network for its connectivity features.
Also,
Motorola has confirmed that this satellite phone module will be launched today.
Predictably, the accessory will be unveiled only in the Chinese market for now.
However, the company is yet to reveal which smartphone will be paired with the
upcoming module or if it is designed for multiple Motorola phones. There is no
information about its price.
As mentioned earlier, Motorola has also launched a fully satellite connectivity-supported rugged smartphone called the Defy 2. Built in collaboration with Bullitt, the device supports two-way satellite connectivity. Apart from sending text messages and 24x7 SOS support, users can share their location and check-in through this device. Considering that satellite connectivity is set to become the next big thing in mobile communication, Motorola's move is truly commendable.