In a groundbreaking development, UAE residents are set to experience enhanced connectivity through voice, texting, and data satellite services directly on their standard smartphones. This initiative, driven by a partnership between e& UAE and Al Yah Satellite Communications Company, aims to revolutionize communication by providing seamless connectivity even in remote areas with limited cellular reception.
The collaboration will leverage Al Yah’s planned low earth orbit (LEO) Direct-to-Device (D2D) system, enabling standard smartphones to connect to satellites for communication purposes. This technology promises unparalleled levels of accessibility and connectivity for users worldwide, eliminating the need for specialized satellite devices.
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Initially, the focus will be on offering voice and messaging capabilities, with plans to introduce texting and Internet of Things (IoT) services on smartphones by 2025, utilizing both low earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellites.
Masood M. Sharif Mahmood, CEO of e& UAE, hailed the partnership as a catalyst for global connectivity, emphasizing its role in bridging the digital divide and ushering in a connected future.
Ali Al Hashemi, Group CEO of Yahsat, highlighted the comprehensive collaboration between the two companies, encompassing various areas to enhance the ecosystem under the D2D strategy, known as Project SKY. This strategy aims to deploy satellite connectivity across voice, texting, and data applications, enhancing accessibility for users across the globe.
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In a related development, Thuraya Telecommunications Company, a subsidiary of Yahsat, unveiled the Skyphone, the world’s first universal D2D Android smartphone with satellite voice and SMS capabilities. Featuring a retractable satellite antenna, the Skyphone extends coverage to areas beyond cellular towers, providing uninterrupted connectivity to users in remote locations.
