Abu Dhabi, 3rd May 2010:  For customers selecting modern day communication gadgets, size matters. In the world of satellite communications the size of the phone is even more important and as a satellite handheld market leader, Thuraya Telecommunications Company has always been a step ahead in terms of the design of its handhelds. Since its inauguration, Thuraya has been the pioneer of compact satellite phones and this culminated in 2006 when Thuraya introduced the SO-2510 which was known as the world's smallest satellite phone.

Continuing its legacy, last year Thuraya launched the world's toughest satellite phone, Thuraya XT. This new phone is a remarkable blend of size and unprecedented robustness. Weighing a mere 193 grams, it can easily fit into a pocket with ease and concurrently still offer trendy and sophisticated features.

"There are a number of satellite phones that are bulky and non-ergonomic but the latest addition to our portfolio of handhelds, Thuraya XT embodies compactness and incomparable durability standards," said Thuraya's Product Manager, Alexander Lachner.

"Despite Thuraya XT's plethora of unique capabilities, it is not a large or heavy device. Its compact size and weight do not in any way affect its sturdiness," added Lachner.

Thuraya XT is the only satellite phone to be IP54/IK03 certified making it splash water resistant, dust and shock proof. Thuraya carried out several tests to achieve this unique certification and through which the phone earned its position as the world's toughest satellite phone.

"Anyone looking for a reliable phone can easily depend on Thuraya XT. If you drop it from a reasonable height, splash it with water or smear it with dust it will still function perfectly. When we designed the phone it was built to withstand drop tests from an independent testing house. We dropped it onto concrete from a height of 120 centimeters and ensured that all edges of the phone hit the surface and it was still operable. We know that our customers in vertical industries endure harsh circumstances and to this end we made sure Thuraya XT meets their needs," added Lachner.

In addition to the small size and ruggedness the Thuraya XT also provides data services on the phone. If connected to a computer, users can browse the net and access download speeds of 60 Kbps. Also available on this professional phone is fax services as well as GPS navigation capabilities whereby users can navigate waypoints through the phone.

Supporting 12 languages, the gadget has a brightness sensor to match its high visibility colour screen that allows customers to easily read the user-friendly menu of the phone in bright environments.

Thuraya XT is a satellite phone that is currently available in the market that has already attracted the interest of several large organisations from vertical industries because of its opportune size and incomparable robustness that is backed with superior features. Working within a coverage area of 140 countries in Europe, Africa, Middle East, Asia and Australia, Thuraya XT is supported by a very strong satellite network that ensures the highest quality of service and calls.

-Ends-

About Thuraya (www.thuraya.com)
Thuraya provides cost-effective mobile satellite services in more than 140 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. Services provided by Thuraya include mobile voice that support dual GSM and satellite mode, broadband, maritime, rural telephony, fleet management and other advanced applications that enable people and businesses everywhere under its coverage to enjoy constant access to communications and information. Thuraya enhances sectors such as oil and gas, mining, agriculture, NGOs and maritime services through its cutting edge technology.

The Company launched its third satellite in January 2008, which has brought countries of the Asia-Pacific region under its footprint and extended its coverage to nearly two thirds of the globe's population.

Thuraya was founded in 1997 by a consortium of leading national telecommunications operators and reputed investment firms from the region.

For more information, please contact:
Mr. Ebrahim K. Ebrahim
Corporate Communications Department
Thuraya Telecommunications Co.
Post Box 283333 Dubai, UAE
Tel: 971-4-4488-828
Fax: 971-4-4488-899
Email: e_ebrahim@thuraya.com
 
For commercial inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Muiz Saad
Senior Manager Marketing and Sales
Thuraya Telecommunications Co.
Post Box 283333 Dubai, UAE
Tel: 971-50-811-2215
Email: m_saad@thuraya.com

© Press Release 2010