EB, TerreStar Networks Showcase First-Ever Dual-Mode Satellite-Terrestrial HSPA Handset Reference Design

EB, and TerreStar Networks, are showcasing the first-ever dual-mode satellite-terrestrial HSPA reference design handset in a PDA form factor. This innovative device will be shown this week at CTIA WIRELESS 2008 in Las Vegas.

Together, EB and TerreStar are working to deliver a new generation of mobile reference designs. The satellite-terrestrial all-IP enabled handset platform, similar in size to today’s PDA, will allow users to seamlessly and securely stay connected to both the satellite and terrestrial components of the TerreStar network.

Additionally, EB and TerreStar are working to enable device manufacturers to rapidly bring to market the world’s first quad-band GSM and tri-band WCDMA/HSPA smartphone with integrated all-IP satellite-terrestrial voice and data capabilities. This reference design also includes:

• The only fully IP-based satellite phone using high-speed packet data;
• The first satellite-terrestrial smartphone with a touch screen and a full QWERTY keyboard;
• The first satellite-terrestrial smartphone based on Windows Mobile operating system, with competitive service offerings, including: SMS, MMS, IM, Email, Push to Talk and Location Based Services (LBS).

“By developing and delivering innovative reference designs for integrated satellite-terrestrial networks, EB and TerreStar intend to help solve the critical communications and business continuity challenges faced by enterprises, rural communities and the nation’s homeland defense and public safety agencies,” said Dennis Matheson, chief technology officer, TerreStar Networks. “We are empowering end-users across North America to be connected to our network through a virtual handshake between our next-generation mobile satellite and terrestrial network; and with EB’s reference designs we can provide customer-designed, tailored applications in a conventional form factor end-users are familiar with.”

Critical to the relationship is that TerreStar customers can utilize the existing reference design form factors – or – work directly with EB to customize their mobile devices based on their target market requirements. Initial commercial availability of the reference design is planned for H1 2009.

“This is an exciting moment, as EB and TerreStar are now ready to show the reach of ubiquitous satellite-terrestrial high speed all-IP access with powerful smartphone capabilities – all delivered in an incredibly compact form factor,” said Pertti Korhonen, chief executive officer, EB. “This demonstrates EB’s superior technology skills and reflects our ability to turn technology into enriching end-user experiences.”