Motorola has just launched a new smartphone called Defy 2, which supports satellite messaging. The company has also unveiled a Bluetooth add-on for satellite communications that supports both Android and iOS devices and can outsmart Apple’s Emergency SOS.
Satellite connectivity is one of the latest trends in the tech industry. With the expansion of services like Elon Musk’s Starlink, more companies are striving to add support for satellite communications. Apple iPhone 14 took the initiative, and Samsung’s next flagship might also launch with a similar feature. The Korean OEM has recently unveiled its solution for satellite communication on smartphones.
Motorola, however, surprised all with unveiling its Defy 2 device. Defy 2 is a rugged smartphone that brings two-way satellite messaging. This could be a game-changer feature for Motorola’s device, as most of the current satellite communication kits in the market only allow for calling emergency services.
Motorola introduces Defy 2 for satellite messaging
Motorola Defy 2 is accompanied by Bullitt Satellite Messenger for sending and receiving texts via satellite connectivity. You can either send texts to SOS services or one of your contacts. This is similar to what we’ve already seen in the iPhone 14 and its Emergency SOS system. The Defy 2 costs $599, and US customers will get a 12-month subscription to the Essential plan. The devices also goes on sale as CAT S75 in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
If you are not a Motorola customer and don’t like the Defy 2, the company has another product for you. Defy Satellite Link is a Bluetooth add-on that adds satellite connectivity to any Android or iOS device with the help of Bullitt messenger. The device costs $99 and has an IP68 waterproof with a 600mAh battery that seems enough for a few days. Of course, you must buy a Bullitt subscription separately, which is $4.99 monthly for 30 two-way messages. Bullitt offers multiple plans that vary based on the message counts.
Satellite connectivity is currently focused on emergencies, but it can become a core feature of every smartphone in the near future. The next-year flagships are expected to launch with satellite messaging, including Galaxy S24 and Pixel 8 series.
2023-02-26 15:09:20