Communication via space

This gives satellite connection to your Android or iPhone

New accessory from HMD offers a range of satellite functions for both Android and iOS.

Ove Kaufeldt

Published 7 January 2025 - 16:35

More and more mobiles offer varying degrees of built-in satellite communication, but then there are manufacturers like Motorola and Garmin that offer standalone devices for that form of communication.

Now HMD Global joins the latter category with the device HMD Offgrid which supports 2-way SMS messages, live tracking, check-in messages, and SOS requests. HMD Offgrid also works with both Android and iOS devices.

It uses the L Band via satellites from Viasat and Skylo, and has coverage in North America, Europe, and Australia/New Zealand.

SMS messages are sent from your phone number, which means that recipients do not need any special app for the purpose, and real-time tracking can be shared with up to five predefined contacts by pressing a button on the Offgrid device.

HMD Offgrid has an IP68 rating for moisture and dust, as well as MIL-STD-810H for durability, measures 9.4x6.0x1.2 centimeters and weighs 60 grams. The battery life is expected to be up to three days. The positioning includes GPS, Glonass, Galileo, and Beidou.

Currently, there are no Swedish prices, but in the USA, the price is 199 dollars for the device itself. Then, subscriptions start from 15 dollars/month or 79 dollars/year depending on the services.