Don’t have a smartphone with satellite connectivity? This dongle from Motorola and Bullitt adds the emergency feature to almost any smartphone.
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Satellite connectivity is only available on select smartphones, but for other devices, the Motorola Defy Satellite Link is a small Bluetooth dongle that brings support for the emergency feature. So far there are only a handful devices with satellite connectivity. Alongside the iPhone 14 series, the list has grown longer with the addition of the newly announced Cat S75 and Motorola Defy 2 smartphones. Additionally, Qualcomm has announced that Snapdragon Satellite will be available across its Snapdragon lineup.
The Motorola Defy Satellite Link is a small rugged Bluetooth device shaped like a remote. Described as an “advanced satellite hotspot device” and manufactured in partnership with Bullitt, it allows any smartphone (Android or iOS) to connect to Bullitt’s satellite messaging service. This way, users can still communicate with their loved ones or contact emergency services when there is no cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity. The Bullitt Satellite Messenger provides connected devices with the ability to send and receive messages over satellite.
Users Need To Buy A Service Plan
When the device is turned on, it will connect directly to geostationary satellites thousands of miles above the earth. Standing outside under a clear sky should make it easier and faster to connect to a satellite. The device also has an LED indicator that lights up when a connection has been made.
Once the device is connected, users can send messages via the Bullitt Satellite Messenger app. However, they also need to purchase a service plan. Pricing for the plans starts at $4.99 per month for 30 messages. Each plan also has 24/7 access to emergency response centers.
Sent messages arrive as a normal SMS, but recipients will need to install the app to reply. However, they do not have to purchase a plan if they have mobile data or a Wi-Fi connection. In fact, both parties can continue texting via the app if they have an internet connection, as there is only a charge when messages are sent over satellite.
The Motorola Defy Satellite Link also has an SOS key that users can press to contact emergency services even if they are separated from their phones or are running low on battery. The device is powered by a MediaTek chipset, has a 600mAh battery that can last for days, and charges via USB-C. It is IP68 rated for dust and water resistance and has MIL-810 certification for durability. Priced at $99, the Motorola Defy Satellite Link will be available in the second quarter of 2023 via international retailers.