Earlier this year, just ahead of Mobile World Congress, Motorola announced a dongle that enables any mobile phone to connect to a satellite messaging service.
The Motorola Defy Satellite Link connects to a handset via Bluetooth and uses the Bullitt Satellite Connect network to ensure that users can keep into touch, no matter where they are on the planet. And now it is available in multiple countries, including the UK, US and Central Europe.
Satellite communication is a relatively new technology for consumers, although it's been in use for governmental and emergency purposes for many years. It normally requires a dedicated phone to connect, but some companies, such as Apple with its Emergency SOS via Satellite system, are working to change that.
The Defy Satellite Link is further step forward still - it is a separate device, which works much like a mobile hotspot.
It allows two-way personal messaging from remote spots where a normal mobile signal is unavailable. You just need to download a dedicated Bullitt Satellite Messenger app to your iPhone or Android handset, create a personal account and pair the dongle. Then you can send and receive messages.
The device itself comes with a physical "check-in" button that, when pressed, enables real-time location sharing. This will alert family, friends or colleagues and give them tracking information so they can see your progress. A satellite SOS function is also on board.
Perhaps the most impressive part of the Motorola Defy Satellite Link is its price. Satellite connectivity is usually pretty expensive, with hefty subscription fees, but in this case you get a whole year's Essentials Messaging plan and satellite-enabled SOS subscription included in the price of the device itself.
It costs £159.99 in the UK, $149.99 in the US, and €169.99 in Europe.
The Essential Messaging plan includes up to 30 two-way messages per month and SOS assist. This latter feature offers 24/7 access to emergency response centers around the globe (which are run by FocusPoint International).
It usually costs £4.99 per month, with additional step-up plans also available that provide many more messages.
The Motorola Defy Satellite Link is available from numerous retailers, including B&H Photo and AT&T in the States. You can find out more from Motorola's dedicated website.
We tested the dongle out and about in the UK earlier this year, you can read all about our experiences with it.
-
Watch out Mini: Peugeot GTi is back with e-208 EV hot hatchPeugeot has relaunched its historic GTi badge with the new e-208 GTi
-
I interviewed the CEO who wants to change the face of sim racing wheels this yearWe sit down with Asetek's CEO to learn the story behind the company's PC cooling roots and affordable sim wheel aspirations
-
Your Pixel phone just got the biggest update of the year – Android 16 rolling out nowGoogle has started to roll out the full Android 16 update to supported Pixel phones
-
iPadOS 26 just made the iPad a true Mac replacementWait, did Apple just make a touchscreen MacBook?
-
There's an Android foldable coming with Apple Watch support – the first of its kindIs Vivo about to take a swinging ball to Apple’s walled garden?
-
Apple's new Mac software brings many iOS 26 benefits – but adds one thingChanges aplenty
-
Apple's AirPods are getting a very useful upgrade – but not all modelsApple is updating AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2 with some great creativity features
-
Apple takes gaming seriously at last – separate Games app coming to iOS 26Apple Games will include Arcade and other gaming services
-
Apple confirms iOS 26 with huge updates and major new featuresApple's switching up its naming game
-
Your iPhone will look very different after Apple's Liquid Glass updateAll your other Apple devices are getting the new redesign too
