Tech

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. 

Recent Posts

  • Tech

The EFTM podcast – ISP recommendations, Free to Air reception issues, Mesh dramas and Optus Soccer Data blitz

This week Lori is back with questions about her email and the new laptop. Marty…

17 hours ago
  • Tech

Amazon offers five hour delivery times in Sydney and Melbourne

As if shopping wasn't already easy enough these days, Amazon has stepped things up again…

1 day ago
  • Tech

No Console Required: Xbox Cloud Gaming Arrives on Hisense and VIDAA OS-powered TVs

Microsoft has been expanding access to Xbox over the last few years, bringing it to…

2 days ago
  • Tech

Garmin launches “Recharge Lounge” Pop-Up in Sydney for CIRQA Smart Band Launch

Sydney-siders keen to get a look at the recently announced Garmin CIRQA Smart Band will…

2 days ago
  • Motoring

The Two Blokes Talking Electric Cars podcast – Episode # 132 – The Tesla Model S Road Trip

Gavin's folks used to drive around in a big landcruiser for the great Aussie road…

2 days ago
  • Tech

Two Blokes Talking OPTUS – A Special live from Optus Stadium, Perth

This week, we venture west, as guest of Optus for a conversation about networks, major…

3 days ago