Iridium launched a satellite Wi-Fi hotspot in 2014 – the Iridium GO! – retailing at $850 (often found for $699).
The Iridium Go! is a handheld satellite powered calling, text and data capabilities.
Data plans start at $49/mo, or you can get unlimited data for $139/mo. You can activate service just when you need it, there are no contracts.
The Iridium constellation provides global coverage with 66 swarming satellites orbiting 475 miles up. Iridium is known for powering handheld satellite phones that enable voice calls anywhere on the planet, but the network does support limited data service too.
Speeds on the Iridium Go! are at a painfully slow 2.4 Kbps - so uploading a single high-resolution image might take hours, and even a basic web page might take 5–10 minutes to display.
The other big gotcha is that all data usage must go through Iridium's special apps on your phone or tablet – you cannot get a laptop online or use arbitrary apps.
This is not a device for surfing on - but it can be a great global communication option for places where there are no other consumer affordable options. It can download weather updates, place calls, do basics online and most importantly - reach help.
The option is very popular with sailors and cruisers making passages. Additional external antennas can be purchased for always on connectivity.
Specifications:
- Main Function: Basic Satellite Communicator
- Satellite Network: Iridium
- Integration: phone, tablet
- Battery: 5.5 hours of talk/data use and up to 15.5 hours of standby time
- Weight: 2.16 lbs
- Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 4 inches
- Waterproof: IP65
- Location: Accurate within 2.5 meters
- Price: $850/$699 (device), $49/mo (plan)
Review & Testing Status:
We do not intend to obtain a setup to test.
But! Here's a great review from friends of our resource center, Gone with the Wynns: How We Stay Connected Sailing The World – Free Wifi, Phones, & Satellite
Potential Alternatives to Consider:
For other featured mobile satellite options:
Learn More About Mobile Satellite Options
This Review Contains Additional Member Exclusive Content!
We are Honored to be Member Funded! No ads, no sponsors, no selling (but may contain affiliate links)
Our members fund our in-depth independent reviews.
This entry may contain additional member exclusive content such as testing notes, field testing data, user interface tours, comparisons to alternatives, analysis, tips, videos and discounts.
Members also get interactive guidance, alerts, classroom and more.
Are you a member? Please log in above to access your member exclusive content!
Additional Reading
Related Articles
Related Guides
Purchasing Options
PredictWind (cruiser recommended for marine support) | BlueCosmo | Iridium
The guides below have been hand-picked to help further your education about mobile satellite:
The Mobile Internet Resource Center is brought to you by Two Steps Beyond LLC, and hosted by the technomads of