The satellite communication option built into smartphones is by no means a new invention, which has proven its right to exist several times in the past one or two years, either in disaster situations or in individual crisis situations. However, the operation of the satellite-based emergency call system is somewhat absurdly bound to geographical boundaries to this day – HMD OffGrid helps with this, which can be the savior of second-class citizens.
The now-presented gadget from the manufacturer best known for its newer Nokia smartphones, now known as Human Mobile Devices, is essentially a satellite tracking and communication device that enables any Android or iOS phone to communicate with satellites operating in the L-band.
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OffGrid is actually a gateway between the smartphones detailed above and Overwatch x Rescue, a system from satellite emergency service provider FocusPoint International, and while it doesn’t offer voice calling, two-way chat and satellite location tracking for up to five users are part of the package.
OffGrid, which will be launched in several regions and continents (including Europe) later this month, can be used for a one-time fee and an annual subscription fee, which is $80 and $140 depending on the number of messages you can send (350 or unlimited).
According to HMD, the device, which weighs only 60 grams and has three buttons (two of which are programmable), can withstand even the harshest conditions, which is certified by MIL-STD-810H compliance. To facilitate the work of local rescue teams, OffGrid is also capable of emitting an audible alarm. According to the manufacturer, the communicator can operate for three days on a single charge, although this was measured by HMD under laboratory conditions without a satellite connection.
Source: www.hwsw.hu
