UAE to introduce satellite connectivity for voice, text, data.

Post by: Dr. Amrinder Pal Singh

Photo-The Emirates Times

UAE residents are on the brink of experiencing a significant technological advancement: the integration of voice, texting, and data satellite connectivity directly into their standard smartphones. This innovative solution promises to revolutionize communication by enabling seamless connectivity even in areas with no cellular reception. By harnessing low-orbit satellite technology, phones will be able to communicate with other devices or networks via satellite signals.

e& UAE has forged a strategic partnership with Al Yah Satellite Communications Company, aligning with its ambitious direct-to-device (D2D) strategy. This groundbreaking initiative aims to equip standard smartphones with advanced satellite capabilities, offering users access to services and applications regardless of their location. The collaboration signifies a departure from conventional satellite communication methods, eliminating the need for bulky external devices.

Central to this partnership is the joint endeavor to leverage Yahsat's forthcoming low earth orbit (LEO) D2D system. This state-of-the-art infrastructure is designed to deliver seamless connectivity to standard smartphones, promising unparalleled levels of accessibility for users worldwide. By harnessing the power of satellite technology, e& UAE and Yahsat are poised to redefine the boundaries of global connectivity.

The phased rollout of services will commence with voice and messaging capabilities slated for release this year, followed by texting and IoT functionalities integrated into smartphones by 2025. Leveraging Yahsat's geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellites, these offerings will ensure comprehensive coverage and reliability for users across diverse environments.

Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, heralds this partnership as the dawn of a new era in global connectivity. Emphasizing the significance of bridging the digital divide, Mahmood underscores the transformative impact of seamless, anytime-anywhere connectivity on society at large. Similarly, Ali Al Hashemi, Group CEO of Yahsat, highlights the extensive collaboration between the two companies, aiming to foster innovation and drive ecosystem development under the overarching vision of Project SKY.

Project SKY represents the inaugural phase of Yahsat's D2D strategy, encompassing key applications such as voice, texting, and data connectivity. Through concerted efforts and shared objectives, e& UAE and Yahsat are poised to shape the future of telecommunications, offering users unparalleled connectivity and convenience.

In a related development, Thuraya Telecommunications Company, a subsidiary of Yahsat, recently unveiled the Skyphone, the first universal D2D Android smartphone equipped with satellite voice and SMS capabilities. Featuring an innovative design with a retractable satellite antenna, the Skyphone extends coverage to remote areas beyond the reach of terrestrial networks. With dual nano-SIM card slots enabling seamless terrestrial and satellite connections, this groundbreaking device epitomizes the evolution of satellite-enabled communication in the modern era.

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