Operating the phone is similar to a standard mobile. When the user raises the antenna, the phone automatically searches for a satellite, which can take up to 30 seconds. Making the call is simply a case of dialling the number and pressing send. Satellite and cellular phones should not be compared - they are very different tools for very different jobs. But there are compelling reasons to consider purchasing a mobile satellite phone if you travel extensively and use the phone a great deal.
Recent research indicates that call charges are considerably cheaper than cellular and hotel phones.
In these areas, satellite telephony is the only option. To successfully make and receive a satellite call you need to have a clear, broad view of the sky. Calls cannot be made in satellite only mode indoors, underground or in built up areas. You must also be within a few thousand miles of a gateway station. When you make a call the signal is caught by the nearest satellite and bounced back down to one of 14 gateway stations situated around the world.