Satellite Text Messaging Service in New Zealand Initiated by MSC Unveiled
In a significant development for the outdoor community, One NZ has launched a new satellite TXT service in partnership with SpaceX's Starlink network. The service, designed to provide backup communication in remote, rural, and backcountry locations, is set to offer an additional layer of safety for hikers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
MSC, a leading voice in outdoor safety, advises against relying solely on mobile phones for communication in such environments. The new satellite TXT service aims to address this concern by offering a reliable backup option.
The service is compatible with a limited number of eligible phones with an eligible plan, as specified in One NZ's Satellite TXT terms. Four phone models will initially be compatible, with more expected to come onstream next year.
To ensure the service is effective, One NZ has outlined several criteria for suitable devices. These include satellite compatibility, primary use of terrestrial networks, satellite signal reception, emergency features, durability, and power management.
Suitable device options include satellite phones like the Iridium 9555 or ISatPhone Pro 2, IoT devices with satellite modules, and future mobile phones with integrated satellite capabilities. Satellite messengers, such as a Garmin inReach, are also among the options.
Mike, an outdoor safety expert, emphasizes the importance of researching communication device options before a trip to find the best fit for specific circumstances. He also suggests taking an emergency communication device, even with phone compatibility for the new satellite TXT service.
The service will not replace emergency communication devices but aims to prevent unnecessary calls to search and rescue services by providing a means of communication. It is intended for non-emergency communication, aiming to prevent common and preventable safety situations.
As more satellites are launched, One NZ expects the time for text messages to decrease to about a minute. However, delivery times will initially be slower, with messages taking from 3 minutes to up to 10 minutes or longer to send and be received.
The service requires a clear line of sight to the sky for TXT only. It is designed to help users avoid taking risks in dangerous conditions by providing a means of communication and to benefit hikers, hunters, and other backcountry enthusiasts by allowing them to communicate with family and friends.
Service limitations, network performance, phone and plan eligibility will improve over time, as stated in One NZ Satellite TXT terms. Terms, fair use, and capacity management apply to the service, ensuring it remains a reliable backup communication option for the outdoor community.
The new satellite TXT service, in partnership with SpaceX's Starlink network, aims to enhance safety for outdoor enthusiasts by offering a reliable backup communication option for remote areas, as approaching development in science and technology. This service is compatible with a limited number of devices, such as satellite phones, IoT devices, and satellite messengers, and is not intended to replace emergency communication devices.
