2-way satellite messaging is a new technology that allows a mobile phone user to stay reachable via SMS by using satellite connectivity when outside of wireless carrier’s network coverage area. The problem is that only a tiny handful of smartphones currently have the technology built in. This leaves everyone else stranded. But thanks to Motorola Defy Satellite Link, you can add 2-way satellite messaging to any iPhone or Android phone (Samsung Galaxy, Motorola, Nokia, OnePlus, etc).
Apple launched the iPhone 14 series with emergency satellite messaging built in, allowing users to send an SOS in an emergency. 2-way satellite messaging takes things to another level, allowing phone users to exchange text messages the normal way via a satellite link. It goes beyond an emergency system.
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Which phones have 2-way satellite messaging?
The first phone with 2-way satellite messaging built in is the Motorola Defy 2, announced on the 24th of February 2023. The second is the CAT S75, announced shortly after on the same day. Both are rugged smartphones.
As at the time of this article, these are the only cell phones with the technology built in. You can expect more phones with 2-way satellite messaging to be announced in the course of 2023 and beyond.
What is Motorola Defy Satellite Link?
Motorola Defy Satellite Link is a portable device (similar to a mifi or mobile hotspot) that connects to a communication satellite and shares the connection to your smartphone via Bluetooth, so you can send and receive SMS when you are outside of your wireless carrier’s coverage. Think of it as a satellite hotspot device. Cool; right?
The product is compatible with both Android and iOS devices and connects via Bluetooth 5.1. In addition, it is rated IP68 for dust and water resistance, as well as drop resistance, and has passed Mil-Spec 810H testing.
Other features include a 600mAh battery which charges via USB-C, a physical SOS and a location ‘Check In’ button. It uses multiple satellite systems – GPS, Glonass, Galileo, and Beidou.
How does Motorola Defy Satellite Link 2-way satellite messaging work?
After buying your Motorola Defy Satellite Link device, you subscribe to the service which allocates you thirty 2-way messages a month, install the Bullitt Satellite Messenger app, pair the device with your smartphone, and you are good to go.
Text messages are sent via the Bullitt Satellite Messenger app. Your recipient can receive your messages on any phone, whether or not they have the Bullitt Satellite Messenger app. However, for them to be able to reply, they do need to download the app. The app is free and is available in the App Store and Google Play Store.
What does Motorola Defy Satellite Link cost?
The device alone costs only $99 in the United States of America (USA), £99 in the United Kingdom (UK), and €119 in the European Union (EU).
What does the 2-way satellite messaging cost?
The Essentials Messaging plan provides you with up to 30 two-way satellite messages a month. Buying the Motorola Defy Satellite Link device along with a one-year subscription to the plan costs $149 in the United States of America (USA), £149 in the United Kingdom (UK), and €169 in the European Union (EU). Other flexible and heavier usage plans also available.
The device is available from April 2023 when the service kicks off. If your line of work or vocation involves often being outside of cellular wireless service coverage, you should consider getting a Motorola Defy Satellite Link device and service. It sounds like a convenient way to get 2-way satellite messaging without having to buy a new smartphone.