Globalstar today announced a new satellite service that will allow any device to connect outside of cellular coverage via Wi-Fi.
Globalstar calls the new solution Sat-Fi, essentially a satellite router that provides a Wi-Fi signal for mobile devices. Globalstar customers can use their current smartphones, tablets and laptops to send and receive communications when traveling beyond cellular.
The Sat-Fi is available for purchase for $999, and customers can access data, voice and messaging services through the device. Globalstar offers a smartphone app which enables connectivity between any Wi-Fi-enabled device and the Sat-Fi satellite hot spot.
Plans for the service start at $40 per month for 40 voice minutes. Voicemail is an additional $5 per month. Plans top out at $150 per month for unlimited voice minutes, voicemail and something called “Express Data Compression.”
Jay Monroe, chairman and CEO of Globalstar, said in a statement the service will allow government users and subscribers including oil & gas, marine, natural resource and emergency response to stay connected at all times.