Thuraya launches latest generation of dual-mode satellite and GSM phone 'XT-Dual'

Thuraya, the international mobile satellite operator with a  record of over 600,000 phones sold to date, has launched the most advanced dual mode handheld phone that features both GSM and satellite capabilities.The introduction of this unique phone, branded XT-Dual, makes Thuraya the only satellite operator to offer seamless communications as the phone provides consumers the flexibility and freedom to switch betweenGSM and satellite modes wherever they may be located. With a growing subscriber base of voice consumers, one of the world's most powerful networks and a robust reputation for high-performance and compact handhelds, Thuraya continues to present an unprecedented consumer experience through the new, state-of-the-art XT-Dual phone.  As the XT-Dual operates efficiently as a standard GSM phone within the reach of terrestrial networks, and when out of terrestrial network reach operates as a satellite phone supported by Thuraya's powerful network, consumers from all sectors and groups can enjoy the reliability and convenience of handheld voice communications from a device that has high call stability and full walk-and-talk capabilities.  "Today marks yet another milestone for Thuraya as a leader and innovator in the mobile satellite industry. The XT DUAL is certainly a step ahead in satellite telephony and a solution that will transform mobile communications for years to come. The new phone ensures reliable and seamless communications in one very sleek unit, enabling consumers to benefit from the best of the two worlds of GSM and satellite," said Thuraya's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Samer Halawi. A smart and professional phone, the XT-Dual responds to the vital needs of frequent travelers, businessmen, VIPs and consumers from diverse industries as it has a built-in web browser for internet access directly on the phone and it offers the fastest data service on any satellite enabled handheld at 60 kbit/s. It is also cased in a sleek, rugged, and modern design. "In a time where there's a high demand for a rapid exchange of information from smart handhelds (broadband mobility), Thuraya is proud to introduce a phone that is very much in line with today's needs of telecom consumers. Consumers who require GSM for their daily life, and satellite functionality whenever they are out of coverage or for backup in emergency situations, now have a superior phone that meets all of their communication needs," added Mr. Halawi. The Thuraya XT-Dual is an extension of the successful Thuraya XT phone which is renowned for being the world's toughest satellite phone. As such, the XT-Dual is also splash water, dust and impact protected due to its IP64/IK03 rating, making it a rugged handheld that endures tough conditions. The new phone offers the comfort of free mobility without consumers having to worry about the direction of the satellite. Additionally, and like the XT phone, if the antenna of the handheld is stowed, satellite calls can still be received due to a High-Penetration-Alerting function. In addition to the built-in web browser, the phone can be connected to a laptop/PC for internet access and can be synchronized with a laptop/PC. As Thuraya is the only satellite operator to offer satellite roaming capabilities for GSM consumers, people on the move can choose either to use a Thuraya SIM card or access Thuraya's robust network by simply inserting their GSM SIM card into the XT-Dual. Thuraya has roaming agreements with 324 operators covering 154 countries. The phone also has a battery saving technology to support a long lasting talk time of up to 11 hours and standby time of up to 160 hours contributing to the high attractiveness of the phone. Weighing a mere 211 grams, the XT-Dual has an advanced outdoor display with a brightness sensor for perfect readability even in bright sunlight. The XT-Dual offers a GPS functionality that allows waypoint navigation, tracking capabilities to send automatic location updates by SMS as well as an emergency function. The phone supports twelve languages, has messaging via SMS, MMS, e-mail and fax, Bluetooth, an organizer, media center, and it supports Java, allowing external programs to be installed on the phone. PR