Discover the benefits of satellite communication and find the right model for your expeditions, voyages, or professional missions.
🌍 Global coverage🛡️ Safety in any situation📡 Iridium · Inmarsat · Thuraya⚡ Experts for 20 years
According to the International Telecommunication Union, less than 15% of the Earth's surface is covered by terrestrial mobile networks. Oceans, deserts, forests, polar regions, high mountains — all environments where your smartphone becomes useless. That's where the satellite phone comes in: connected directly to orbiting constellations, it guarantees vital communication where no other network works.
The benefits of a satellite phone for remote areas
Four essential reasons to choose satellite communication
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Global Coverage
The Iridium network covers 100% of the Earth's surface, including the poles. Inmarsat and Thuraya cover almost all inhabited and maritime areas.
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Safety & Emergencies
In case of an accident, distress at sea, or medical emergency, the satellite phone is your only link to rescue services. Several models feature an SOS button with GPS tracking.
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Extreme Durability
Designed for the harshest conditions: IP65/IP67 ratings, shock resistance (MIL-STD-810), and operating temperatures from -20°C to +55°C. These devices work where smartphones cannot survive.
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Extended Battery Life
Up to 160 hours of standby time and 8 hours of talk time. Ideal for long expeditions without access to electricity. Some models accept replacement batteries.
The 3 major satellite networks
66
Iridium satellites
Polar coverage
4
Inmarsat satellites
Near-global coverage
2
Thuraya satellites
Europe · Asia · Africa
Comparison of the best satellite phones (Iridium, Inmarsat, Thuraya)
Our selection of the 4 highest-performing models available at Advanced Tracking
IridiumIridium Extreme 9575⭐ Best-seller
The most advanced satellite phone with built-in GPS, dedicated SOS button, and MIL-810F military certification. Designed for professionals requiring absolute reliability in the harshest environments.
The standard satellite phone for emergency communications. Compact, reliable, and proven, the Iridium 9555 offers complete global coverage with an intuitive user interface. Ideal for sailors, hikers, and professionals on the move.
🌍 Global coverage💬 SMS & data🔌 Mini-USB data⏱️ 4h talk time
InmarsatIsatPhone Pro 2🔋 Record battery life: 160h
The most rugged satellite phone for extreme conditions. Designed to withstand temperatures from -20°C to +55°C, with IP65 and IK04 ratings, and exceptional 160-hour standby battery life. The benchmark for long-duration expeditions.
🔋 160h standby🌡️ -20°C to +55°C🛡️ IP65 · IK04⚡ Connection < 45s📍 GPS + SOS
The universal professional satellite phone with triple navigation (GPS, BeiDou, Glonass) for ultra-precise location. Its scratch-resistant Gorilla® Glass screen, readable in direct sunlight, and dedicated SOS button make it the ideal choice for professionals traveling internationally.
❓ Do you need a subscription to use a satellite phone?
Yes, a subscription or prepaid SIM card is required. At Advanced Tracking, we offer prepaid SIM cards (no commitment) and monthly plans tailored to each network (Iridium, Inmarsat, Thuraya). Prepaid cards are ideal for occasional use or one-off expeditions.
❓ What is the difference between Iridium, Inmarsat and Thuraya?
Iridium (66 satellites in low orbit) offers the only truly global coverage including the poles — ideal for offshore navigation and polar expeditions. Inmarsat (geostationary satellites) covers almost all inhabited areas with excellent voice quality and record standby time. Thuraya covers Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East with excellent value for money for business travel in these areas.
❓ Can a satellite phone replace my smartphone?
No — a satellite phone is a safety and emergency communication tool, not a replacement for a smartphone. Satellite calls cost between €0.50 and €2 per minute depending on the network and plan. It is designed for voice calls, short SMS and basic data. In areas covered by the mobile network, your smartphone remains the best choice. The satellite phone takes over where all other networks disappear.
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Need personalized advice?
Our team of experts will help you choose the satellite phone suited to your use and budget.
