Iridium has released a new firmware for the 9555 handheld that allows the satellite phone to interface with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7 as well as MAC OS version 10.4 or later.  This latest release makes it easier for users to send and receive emails and exchange computer files through the 9555 handheld. In addition, SMS capabilites have been enhanced so that text messages up to 1,000 characters to an e-mail address (or mobile phone, if supported by the recipients mobile phone network provider) are now possible .

The new firmware release for the Idirium 9555 handheld is now available from European Datacomm. For more information, please contact customer service.

- Iridium press release-

MCLEAN, Va., June 9, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Iridium Communications Inc. (Nasdaq:IRDM), the only provider of real global, mobile and reliable satellite phones, announces important new features for its Iridium 9555 satellite handset. The latest firmware release for the Iridium 9555 includes the ability to directly interface with computers running on Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, as well as Mac Version 10.4 or later. The upgrades now make it easier for users to send and receive e-mails and exchange computer files through the Iridium satellite phone. The Iridium 9555 connects to the laptop with a standard mini-USB cable. In addition, the Iridium 9555 has enhanced short-message service (SMS) text capabilities. Iridium 9555 users can now send and receive long SMS texts up to 1,000 characters in length . Previously, the Iridium 9555 offered the ability to text up to 160 characters.

"These new features will greatly enhance users' experience with Iridium satellite phones and are part of our program of continuous product improvement," said Joel Thompson, vice president of product management for Iridium. "Since its introduction in 2008, the Iridium 9555 has maintained market leadership as the only satellite phone that provides dependable communications-on-the-move globally, including places where other satellite systems cannot reach."

"The compact lightweight Iridium 9555 has established the standard for satellite phones in terms of convenience and portability," said Thompson.

"The Iridium 9555 has proved to be a critical communication link for relief and recovery operations during recent earthquakes and other natural disasters in which reliability and mobility are crucial." The Iridium 9555 phone uses the company's constellation of 66 cross-linked satellites orbiting about 500 miles above the Earth's surface. The satellite orbits intersect over the North and South poles, providing complete coverage over the entire Earth's surface.