[Satellite TODAY 09-22-10] TerreStar and AT&T have released the satellite-augmented Genus dual-mode smartphone to market, the companies announced Sept. 21.
    The handset has access to AT&T’s cellular wireless capability as the primary default mode as well as TerreStar-1’s satellite connectivity as a secondary option for voice, data and messaging. While the Genus handset was designed as an everyday mobile device, the service will target enterprise, government and small business customers that operate in areas with traditionally unreliable coverage.
    "We understand the importance to stay connected in remote locations and especially in emergency situations, and today’s announcement is the latest example of AT&T’s commitment to delivering the highest levels of service, quality and reliability for customers. With this expansion of AT&T’s innovative mobility portfolio, AT&T is helping businesses and government agencies stay connected with a single device, single support contact and single bill,” AT&T Business Solutions President Michael Antieri said in a statement.
    TerreStar’s partnership with AT&T initially was announced in September 2009. The two companies debuted the handset at the 2009 International Association of Cheifs of Police conference in October.
     Following the debut, TerreStar CEO Jeff Epstein told Satellite TODAY that there was a reason the phone was debuted to this particular niche market. “Public safety and the public sector in general, which includes federal, state and local governments, are our top target market segments with the greatest amount of interest in this service right now. There are other areas — maritime and enterprise markets — which will soon follow after this handset enters the emergency services, homeland security and disaster management markets.”
    The Genus handset, which Epstein described as “familiar 3G wireless connectivity with satellite capability at your hip,” is being offered with its integrated chipset for $799. The service will be prices at $24.99 per month, with voice calls at a rate of 65 cents per minute and SMS text messaging at 40 cents per message. Data usage is priced at $5 per megabyte. Subscription to these satellite solutions requires qualified AT&T’s wireless voice and data plans, much like the iPhone. The TerreStar Genus runs on the Windows Mobile 6.5 operating system to provide rich features and functionality, including a touch screen, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, camera and GPS. 

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