Thuraya’s X5-Touch satellite smartphone. Photo: Thuraya.

Thuraya has unveiled its first satellite smartphone during its partner conference in Dubai. The Thuraya X5-Touch runs on the Android operating system and has a 5.2-inch High Definition touchscreen. It targets users who frequently move in and out of terrestrial coverage across a range of market sectors including government missions, energy projects, enterprise communications, and Non-Government Organization (NGO) deployments. The phone offers connectivity on the move, in remote areas normally beyond the reach of smartphones, Thuraya stated.

According to the company, the smartphone represents a step toward convergence between terrestrial and satellite communications through its dual-mode and dual-SIM capability. It has two SIM-card slots for full user flexibility, and with the dual-active mode it has the ability to have both its satellite and 2G, 3G, or 4G modes always on simultaneously.

To cater to the needs of users in harsh and remote conditions, the Thuraya X5-Touch comes with a Gorilla glass display and adheres to an IP67 standard for dust and water protection. The smartphone also includes a built-in SOS button and a front and rear camera.

The X5-Touch is equipped with GPS, Glonass, and BeiDou systems for navigation and tracking functions, as well as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Near-Field Communication (NFC).

“With the Android platform there is already a multitude of apps readily available to work on the Thuraya X5-Touch, and developers will have easy access to develop and customize apps for the needs of their customers,” added Ahmed Al Shamsi, acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Thuraya.