Fledgling satellite operator TerreStar Networks has inked an agreement with AT&T under which the U.S. mobile operator will offer the world’s first satellite/cellular smartphone. Called the Genus, the new hybrid device — which switches to satellite coverage whenever cellular links are unavailable — will enable users to gain ubiquitous access to voice and data services throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and offshore coastal waters.
The main goal for the Genus is “to enable true ubiquity and reliability virtually anywhere in the United States to help solve the critical communications and business continuity challenges faced by government, emergency responders, enterprises and rural communities,” said Jeffrey Epstein, TerreStar Networks president.
A Compact Design
Based on Microsoft’s Windows Mobile OS, Genus includes a slew of features in high demand, such as a touchscreen and Qwerty keyboard, together with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS radios. The new hybrid handset also is equipped with an internal antenna that makes Genus far more compact than previous satellite handsets from GlobalStar and Iridium, which feature lengthy external antennas that must point in the direction of the satellite.
Genus also integrates a new software-defined radio chipset (SDR) that consists of a single baseband device and one RF transceiver. Developed by Infineon, the new chipset is designed to enable a complete range of quad-band GSM and WCDMA/HSPA cellular communication capabilities in mobile handsets featuring small form factors.
“The programmable nature of SDR technology allows for feature upgrades via software and shortest-ever turnaround times for next-generation products,” said TerreStar Chief Technology Officer Dennis Matheson.
What’s more, Qualcomm is slated to begin providing OEMS next year with select multimode baseband chips and RF processors that will support TerreStar’s satellite-cellular network. “This agreement provides more tools for our wholesale partners, government and commercial sales initiatives and opens up new…