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Picking the right satellite phone for your next backpacking or hiking trip can be overwhelming. There are so many satellite phones in the market, so how do you know which is good to purchase? Well, you’ll have to put many things into consideration, such as coverage, quality, features, price, etc.
The Isatphone 2 from Inmarsat is one of the few satellite phones that would catch your eye. This Inmarsat Isatphone 2 review will help you know more about the device and if it’ll make a worthy buy.
Inmarsat Isatphone 2 Satellite Phone Review
With this satellite phone, you can make voice calls, send SMS messages, use Bluetooth, and use GPS to track your position. Inmarsat offers global coverage so that you can use the device anywhere you are. The phone connects with and operates over a global I-4 satellite network.
The Inmarsat Isatphone 2 is an ergonomic device. Aside from its lightweight, the design is very compact, making the phone very portable. As a robust phone, you can use it in any weather condition.
It operates at -20°c to +55°c with a 95% humidity tolerance. Also, it is IP65 and IK04, which makes it shock, dust, and moisture resistant.
Which company is behind it?
Inmarsat is the company behind this Isatphone 2, and they have been operating for over 40 years. The company specializes in providing a range of customers – including governments, organizations, and enterprises – with high-speed data and reliable voice communication. They provide coverage on land, sea, and air.
Inmarsat boasts of owning and operating the more reliable satellite and ground networks in the world. They own 13 satellites above the Earth, and their satellite series was the first to establish a global 3G mobile network.
Notably, the company is behind the European Aviation Network (EAN) – a network that provides 4G LTE ground coverage to 30 European countries.
- Durable
- Easy setup
- Global coverage
- IP65 and IK04 rated
- GPS tracking
- Long battery life
- Bluetooth
- Prepaid units expire if not used
- No coverage at poles
Verdict
As a durable device with global coverage, all basic satellite phone features, and more (GPS and Bluetooth), the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 is a product with about 90% reliability.
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Who is the product for?
The Inmarsat Isatphone 2 is a satellite phone, so primarily it is for anyone who needs a satellite phone. People in need of satellite phones are usually those that embark on hiking and backpacking trips. However, this is not just your regular satellite phone, so there are more reasons why you may need it.
As you explore, you might need to contact home to keep in touch to check on them or if you run into some difficulties. The mobile SIM is provided by telecoms, which you use in your mobile phones, will not be functional off the grid. This is because you are out of their coverage area.
Meanwhile, the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 connects with out of Earth satellites to provide global coverage so you can contact home wherever you are backpacking and hiking. The Inmarsat Isatphone 2 is for you also if you need a satellite phone that’s easy to use. With a simple interface, operating this device is seamless.
Finally, you can meet very extreme weather conditions while outdoors. Any regular satellite will breakdown and be non-functional in such conditions, but the Inmarsat Isatphone is engineered to withstand such extreme weather conditions.
Key features and benefits of the Inmarsat Isatphone 2
eCompass
The Inmarsat Isatphone 2 features an eCompass (electronic compass) for enhanced pointing. The eCompass uses a magnetometer as the sensor and works with the Earth’s magnetic field.
This feature works for navigation and orientation, just like a regular compass, so you know where you are headed at all times. You don’t have to worry about which way is North.
GPS
GPS currently is one of the most sought features in satellite phones, and its built-in in the Inmarsat Isatphone 2. When you go for hikes, you can get lost, but with a GPS, you’ll always know where you are, and finding your way back won’t be difficult.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is the standard wireless technology, and it allows you to use your device conveniently. The Inmarsat Isatphone 2 doesn’t just feature this technology; it also comes with a Bluetooth earpiece.
You can connect the satellite phone to the earpiece and make calls without holding the device (hands-free use).
Contact Synchronization
This satellite phone from Inmarsat supports contact synchronization with MS Outlook 2007. So, you can easily import contacts you have stored on there or export from your satellite phone.
This is a timesaver and prevents you from losing and important contact. It is compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10 versions.
Alarm and minute minder
This satellite phone can double as an alarm clock, and you know how helpful alarms can be. They help you get up on time or can simply be set as a reminder to do something.
Also, it features a minute minder, which keeps you informed on the length of your call. You can disable this feature at will.
IP65 and IK04 rating
IP65 and IK04 ratings have to do with durability. In other words, the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 is a durable device, and being durable means long-lasting.
As already mentioned, the device is engineered to withstand the most extreme conditions. It is resistant to shock, dust, moisture.
Long battery life
This satellite phone from Inmarsat has one of the longest battery life ever on a satellite phone. On standby, the battery can last for up to 160 hours, which is almost a week.
On the other hand, you get 8 hours of talk time.
Multiple language support
You can use the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 even if you are not an English speaker. The device supports eight other languages, including Arabic, Chinese, French, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Turkish.
FAQ & Additional Tips
How much does this product cost?
The Inmarsat Isatphone 2 can be purchased with zero units for about $550 – $650, depending on the merchant. Some merchants also offered preowned ones for $150 – $250. You’ll be needing units, and Inmarsat sells them at varying rates depending on the number of minutes.
Where can you purchase the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 satellite phone?
Top shopping platforms where you the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 include Amazon, Walmart, eBay, Satellite Phone Store.
I would recommend you order your product from Amazon to get free shipping if you’re within the United States.
You can also rent it on the Satellite Phone Store if you won’t be needing it for a long time.
What is included in the purchase pack?
When you purchase this satellite phone, it comes with the following;
- Lithium-ion battery
- International plug kit
- DC charger
- Holster
- Hands-free earpiece
- Lanyard
- USB cable
- Quick start guide
- SIM card
How is the device used?
As mentioned earlier, the Inmarsat Isatphone 2 is very easy to use as a satellite phone. It takes just seconds to set up the SIM card with a simple interface. It doesn’t come with any user manual, but you can get all the user instructions you need from the manufacturer’s website.
Does it have a warranty?
Yes, Inmarsat issues a 1-year warranty on this product.
Conclusion
At the end of this Inmarsat Isatphone 2 review, you will agree with me that the device offers numerous benefits. It is highly dependable as it offers global coverage except for the North and South poles, and it is durable.
Not to mention the long battery life and advanced features like GPS, Bluetooth, minute minder, and eCompass, this and more is why I recommended the Inmarsat Isatphone 2. You can check out the product on Amazon and see customer reviews for yourself.
