Satellite Smart Phone
Courtesy of AT&T
During the 1990s, many believed satellite phones were the future of mobile communications. Rapidly expanding terrestrial cellular networks gobbled up most of the market instead. Still, satellite phones retained some technical advantages over cellular ones, principally in remote or rugged areas that are difficult to cover economically with cell towers. Now the TerreStar Genus smart phone is combining the best of both worlds, using a cellular connection when available and tapping into a satellite feed when people wander out of range of a cell tower.
Keep Reading
Most Popular
Why China is still obsessed with disinfecting everything
Most public health bodies dealing with covid have long since moved on from the idea of surface transmission. China’s didn’t—and that helps it control the narrative about the disease’s origins and danger.
These materials were meant to revolutionize the solar industry. Why hasn’t it happened?
Perovskites are promising, but real-world conditions have held them back.
Anti-aging drugs are being tested as a way to treat covid
Drugs that rejuvenate our immune systems and make us biologically younger could help protect us from the disease’s worst effects.
A quick guide to the most important AI law you’ve never heard of
The European Union is planning new legislation aimed at curbing the worst harms associated with artificial intelligence.
Stay connected
Illustration by Rose WongGet the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.