SkyTerra Communications of Reston, Va. has announced details of its
next-generation satellite service, planned for 2010. Some customers
signing two or three-year contracts for next-generation services will
be able to exchange current devices for new devices free of charge or
at a discount.
The company’s service area includes Canada. SkyTerra has said
current customers using MSAT-G2 radios will be “eligible” to get one
next generation device for each radio they already own. Those wanting
to exchange current devices for mounted devices will have to sign a
three-year contract. Those wanting a new handheld device will have to
sign a two-year contract.
The MSAT-G2 devices support push-to-talk and the North American
numbering plan, plus other telephony services including voicemail.
The company said the first two of its next-generation satellites are
scheduled to be launched during the first half of next year.
On its Web site it describes its next generation network as one that
integrates satellite and cellular communications to provide “seamless”
coverage in North America. Currently its network services North
America, the northern part of South America, plus Hawaii.
The company says the transition plan applies to customers with
active accounts. Enterprise customers with 10 or more active
Westinghouse or Mitsubishi terminals will get a next-generation device
for each unit. The company promises government users with active
accounts will get a new device, regardless of which type of device they
are currently operating.
Enterprise customers with fewer than 10 of the Westinghouse or
Mitsubishi devices will get a 40 per cent subsidy toward the purchase
of a new next-generation, up to a maximum subsidy of US$375 per device,
the company said.
