HMD OffGrid: a portable satellite communicator for text messaging in places where there is no cellular coverage

By: Anry Sergeev | yesterday, 13:45

HMD OffGrid: A New Step in the World of Satellite Communications

HMD OffGrid device for satellite communications. Source: HMD

Human Mobile Devices has announced the launch of the innovative HMD OffGrid, a compact satellite communicator designed to provide communication in the most challenging conditions. The new product is aimed at adventurers, emergency workers and anyone who needs reliable communication outside of mobile networks.

Key features of HMD OffGrid

HMD OffGrid uses the L Band frequency spectrum to connect to the Viasat satellite network, providing uninterrupted communication in regions without mobile coverage. The device allows you to send SMS even to numbers without the HMD OffGrid app and provide real-time location tracking for up to five people with data updates every 3 minutes.

HMD OffGrid - a compact satellite communicator

HMD OffGrid weighs 60 g and measures 94x60x12 mm. The device meets MIL-STD-810H and IP68 standards, making it resistant to physical impact and waterproof. The battery provides 3 days of battery life.

The device supports FocusPoint International's Overwatch x Rescue service, which provides round-the-clock assistance to search and rescue services in case of emergency. If necessary, emergency services receive the user's last known location.

HMD OffGrid specifications
Device weight	60 g (including battery)
Device dimensions	Height: 93.98 mm Width: 60.16 mm Thickness: 12.0 mm
Volume of the device	67.85 cm³ (1.5 litres)
Package weight (net)	212 г
Package dimensions	Length: 120 mm Width: 111 mm Height: 37.75 mm
Package volume	502.83 cm³
Packaging materials	157 g/m² C2S + 1000 g/m² white cardboard, 350 g/m² double-sided black copper printing, matte film, scratch-resistant
Environmental features	Free of brominated and chlorinated compounds, as well as antimony trioxide, according to the list of substances HMD 1.0 2023 PVC-free Does not contain nickel on the product surface Packaging made from renewable materials Contains up to 78.9% recycled materials Packaging is 100% recyclable Minimised packaging size All materials of the device are recoverable; the recovery rate of the device materials is up to 83.2% The user manual is printed in four colours Energy efficiency: charger not included
Materials used	Plastics: ~64.65% recycled Battery: ~16.06%. Metals: ~8.82% (including ~0.1-0.2% precious metals) Printed circuit boards and electronic components: ~8.47%. Others: ~2% (non-metals such as silicone and other materials such as adhesives) The case is made of 100% recycled PC/AC (6010-R100).

Who is this device for?

Outdoor enthusiasts: mountains, hiking, skiing or sailing.
Disaster relief workers.
Remote businesses and travellers in areas with poor mobile network coverage.

HMD OffGrid in the snow in the middle of a mountainous area

HMD OffGrid in the snow in a mountainous area. Illustration: HMD

HMD OffGrid works via a mobile app (available for Android and iOS). To activate it, it is enough to scan the QR code and choose a convenient tariff plan that meets the level of needs and budget of the client.

Price and availability

HMD OffGrid will go on sale in January 2025 in the US, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, and will be available in other regions throughout the year. The device will be sold for £169/$199. In addition to the cost of the HMD OffGrid itself, you will have to pay a subscription fee for using the services at the following rates:

Parameter	HMD Unlimited tariff	HMD Freedom tariff
Premium SOS service	✔	✔
Text messages (140 character limit for texts)	Unlimited	Up to 350
Activation fee (one-time)	$9.99	$19.99
Subscription	$139.99 per year (with discount) $179.88 (without discount) or $14.99 monthly	$79.99 per year
Optional add-ons Unlimited real-time tracking (Activate or deactivate at any time)	+ $4.99 per month	+ $4.99 per month

Source: HMD

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