IEC Telecom revolutionises humanitarian response

DUBAI: Satellite service operator IEC Telecom Group showcased an innovative device to revolutionise the humanitarian response and unlock new opportunities for critical communications in the field.

Skyphone by Thuraya is the first-ever universal smartphone with cellular and satellite connectivity.

The device will empower first responders and camp administrators in the MENA region with flexible and reliable communications in the field.

Skyphone has been unveiled in the GCC at the 20th Dubai International Humanitarian Aid & Development (DIHAD) Exhibition, took place from April 23rd to 25th at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Skyphone is ideal for humanitarian missions because of its dust and water-resistant case. Over GSM, the device will provide voice and data services and can be used for all types of applications, akin to a regular smartphone. Over satellite, Skyphone will offer Direct-to-device service, supporting calls and SMS in 2024, with IOT and texting to be added in 2025.

Committedtoprovidingconnectivitysolutionsto the humanitarian sector for nearly three decades, IEC Telecom takes the Skyphone’s capabilities to a new level, enabling Push-to-talk (PTT) functionality and tracking over the same device.

“When disaster strikes, fast response is all that matters. With PTT functionality, Skyphone can be used as a radio, facilitating the coordination of rescue operations. GPS tracking, in turn, will provide visibility over the team’s deployment, helping HQ monitor the progress and send reinforcements to a specific user as soon as an alert is received,” said Nabil Ben Soussia, Group CCO, IEC Telecom.