FELICIA ITEJI
UAE-based Space42’s satellite mobility arm, Thuraya, on Monday launched its latest hybrid 5G-satellite smartphone, Thuraya One at Mobile World Congress 2025, as it continues to position itself in the direct-to-device (D2D) satellite space.
Thuraya One runs on Android 14 and can connect to 5G and 4G terrestrial networks, as well as Thuraya’s satellite network, including the recently launched Thuraya 4 satellite.
The Thuraya One smartphone has dual SIM and dual-mode functionality, which enables users to seamlessly switch between cellular and satellite networks.
The smartphone can also be used with SIM cards from any of Thuraya’s 370+ roaming operator partners, allowing customers to use a single SIM card for cellular and satellite calls and messages.
Other specs for Thuraya One include a durable 6.67” AMOLED display, a Qualcomm Octa-core Kryo processor, three rear cameras, a 50MP primary lens, and a front-facing camera. The battery supports up to 26 hours of talk time in 5G mode. The smartphone is also dust and waterproof with an IP67 rating.
The launch of Thuraya One comes a year after Yahsat – which merged with Bayanet to become Space42 in September 2024 – launched the Skyphone, an Android handset with similar specs that also supports 5G and Thuraya satellite connectivity.
Like the Skyphone, Thuraya One is part of Space42’s ongoing strategy to play in the emerging D2D space, said Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Yahsat Space Services at Space42.
“We are accelerating our position as a non-terrestrial networks operator and executing our direct-to-device strategy to bring uninterrupted connectivity to billions of people and devices worldwide,” he said in a statement.
Punters at MWC25 can check out the Thuraya One phone at the Space42 stand. The phone is also now available via Thuraya’s network of over 140 service partners and distributors around the world.
