ASI Entertainment, Inc.'s (OTCBB:ASIQ) wholly owned subsidiary
ASiQ Pty Ltd announced today it plans to develop an advanced VoIP
version of its new cell phone technology which ASiQ have designated
"Safecell". ASIQ has applied for a patent for a new
concept that allows cell phones to be operated in-flight, without
interfering with the aircraft avionics and cellular ground networks.
Ron Chapman, ASiQ's President, stated that "following recent
discussions with airlines, it has become clear that while data
services are a priority, a VoIP version of Safecell would be desirable.
The initial plan for Safecell was a data service only, and now
by adding a VoIP module, creates a whole new opportunity. The
new version will be designed to allow passengers to make a VoIP
call using their cell phone in-flight and also access VoIP at
WiFi hot spots on the ground. Making Safecell WiFi compatible
on the ground, should increase consumer appeal and ultimately
result in a low cost consumer product. Everyone knows the cost
of cell phone roaming is expensive compared to VoIP, so the potential
of using your cell phone for VoIP is ideal for all travelers.
"The cell phones systems being tested by Boeing and Airbus
are not ideally suited for in-flight use, as cell phone handsets
were not designed to accommodate aircraft background noise. Safecell,
being an entirely new concept, can take advantage of the latest
noise cancellation technologies which could overcome this problem."
Safecell is attached to the cell phone via a standard Bluetooth
or cable connection and disables the cell phone transmitter in-flight.
Regardless of network type (GSM, CDMA, UMTS and EDGE), Safecell
is unique being network independent. In flight, Safecell communicates
via the existing certified aviation communications systems and
reduces data delivery cost, as it does not rely on the cellular
roaming network. Safecell can be interfaced to any onboard wired
or wireless network.
ASiQ's application for a patent covers the VoIP capability and
ASiQ also plans to release this feature at the upcoming World
Airlines Entertainment Association (WAEA) to be held in Miami
September 12 to 15th. WAEA showcases the latest airline communication
and entertainment technologies.