HMD are heading off-road with the OffGrid offering mobile satellite connectivity anywhere

HMD have been making a mark globally and locally here in Australia since launching their own devices. At CES, HMD are moving into new territory with the HMD OffGrid – their first entry into Non-Terrestrial Network (NTN) Communications. 

Weighing in at a mere 60 grams, the HMD OffGrid uses ultra-reliable L Band satellite radio spectrum and easily fits in the palm of your hand. The go-anywhere device offers peace of mind through satellite connectivity for Android and iOS users in the world’s most challenging environments.. 

Jean-Francis Baril, Co-founder, Chairman and CEO, at Human Mobile Devices, said: “HMD OffGrid is a new, affordable, portable and easy-to-use offering that’s both empowering and reliable – especially when it matters the most. We’re proud to continue innovating products that prioritise human connection whilst still allowing people to switch-off. So, whether you’re hiking in the mountains or skiing off-piste, HMD OffGrid ensures you’re never truly off grid.”

The HMD OffGrid offers 24/7 emergency response and comes with a 3-day battery life. The unit also carries Mil-Spec (MIL-STD-810H) durability with the ability to survive exposure to high and low temperature, rain, humidity as well as shock protection and more. 

Priced at $329, the HMD OffGrid will include Overwatch x Rescue, a premium SOS service by FocusPoint International  which includes ‘24/7 multi-lingual emergency response coordination and fully funded assistance for customers that live, work, and play off the grid’.

You will need a plan to go along with your OffGrid, with HMD offering flexible plans tailored to your level of adventure and budget. You’ll be able to select a plan and activate the device by scanning a QR code:

• HMD Unlimited Plan: A$24.99 a month or A$239.99 annually for unlimited messages and check-in, SOS services (one-time activation fee of A$13.99). Optional live tracking for A$6.99 a month.
• HMD Freedom Plan: A$112.99 a year (one-time payment) with 350 text messages, unlimited check-ins and live tracking (one-time activation fee of A$27.99).

Once you’re connected, the OffGrid app offers ‘a seamless interface for managing messages, location sharing and SOS features’. You can also enable two-way messaging and live location tracking for up to five people, and you can also check-in easily with a pre-configured message with just the click of a button.

You’ll be able to get your hands on the HMD OffGrid through Amazon Australia when it launches next month.