Beam Granted World’s First Approval for Iridium Extreme Docking Station.
Beam Communications Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of World Reach Limited (ASX: WRR), announces it has received certification by Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq: IRDM) for use of Beam’s LiteDOCK docking station for the Iridium Extreme® satellite phone. Beam is the first manufacturer in the world to receive Iridium’s official certification of a docking unit for the Iridium Extreme handset. Iridium is the operator of the world’s furthest reaching communications network.
With the release of Iridium Extreme, the toughest satellite handset ever made, Beam Communications has developed a range of next-generation docks to complement the phone’s functionality and features. The Beam LiteDOCK docking solution, the first to be approved, extends the functionality of the Iridium Extreme so that it can be used for voice, data and tracking services indoors, in-vehicles, on vessels and in other remote locations. The PotsDOCK provides features such as external GPS connectivity, the ability to use standard telephone equipment such as corded or cordless handsets, and integration with a PBX for in-building or on-vessel use. The in-vehicle unit, DriveDOCK provides a high quality, fully integrated solution with hands-free communication, GPS, Tracking and Alert Capabilities.
“Iridium communications devices and services are more vital than ever in the global communications infrastructure,” said Greg Ewert, executive vice president, global distribution channels, Iridium. “This is because of the ability of innovative partners, such as Beam, who make it possible to communicate through our network anywhere on Earth with tools that make connectivity possible where it was never before imagined. We appreciate the opportunity to act as a solutions catalyst for such forward-thinking on our partners’ part. They truly understand – and meet – the global connectivity needs of customers in endless markets around the world.”
This new Iridium Extreme docking solution by Beam has been specifically designed to meet market needs for land, sea and air applications, and will interface straight out of the box with the tracking and SOS capabilities of the Iridium Extreme handset and the Beam MyBuddy service. Beam plans to market three specific models in its docking solutions suite, including its LiteDOCK, PotsDOCK and DriveDOCK (all found at www.extreme9575.com). Based in Australia, Beam is a leading global provider of satellite docking solutions for multiple handheld satellite telephones.
Initial orders have already been received and shipping has commenced. The Iridium Extreme handset will be distributed by Telstra, AST, Satcomglobal, Infosat, KDDI, Singtel, Inmarsat and other major partners of Beam, and further substantial orders for Iridium Extreme docks are anticipated in the coming months.