Following last year's launch of the GlocalMe U2, a portable connected device incorporating its own CloudSIM technology, allowing users to access the internet anytime, anywhere at affordable rates, uCloudlink is showcasing new CloudSIM-enabled devices at MWC 2018. These include the S1, a new global phone developed in collaboration with Qualcomm, and the P1, a feature phone. Furthermore, uCloudlink is introducing the SIMBOX, which can accommodate four nano SIM cards simultaneously, allowing users to answer calls and even connect to the internet directly from their local SIM card while overseas.
Existing models will be upgraded and pricing plans will be adjusted.
During MWC 2018, uCloudlink revealed that it will be revising the GlocalMe U2, its portable internet device launched last year, to offer more budget-friendly data plans. However, given that sales are primarily focused on Europe, the GlocalMe U2 will continue to be denominated in Euros, with online payments accepted through PayPal. The GlocalMe G3, previously custom-designed in collaboration with Taiwan's Asia Pacific Telecom and Wi-Ho, will undergo a revamp in the near future. It will feature a slimmer design and new, more competitive data plans, allowing users to easily access the internet while overseas.
uCloudlink stated that since the Internet services provided by telecom operators in various regions will change, the global Internet services provided by the GlocalMe series of products operated by CloudSIM technology will actually continue to adjust the Internet tariff plans in various regions. However, it will continue to negotiate with telecom operators in various regions for the most appropriate Internet tariff plan to make it more convenient for users to access the Internet.
At the same time, if we progress to the 5G networking era in the future, uCloudlink does not rule out launching corresponding 5G networking application products, but there are no specific plans at this stage.
SIMBOX targets those who want to maintain local phone and internet access plans.
In addition, for those who still need to answer local calls or access the Internet through local SIM card rates while traveling or conducting business overseas (for example, people in China want to answer and make local calls in Taiwan at normal rates and access the Internet through Taiwan tariff plans), uCloudlink's SIMBOX, which uses a square box design to provide up to 4 nano SIM card slots and a set of RJ-45 network cable connection ports. When users install a Taiwan SIM card in the SIMBOX and connect to their home broadband network, they can use the local network overseas, or use a local SIM card with a small amount of network connection data to answer local calls in Taiwan and access the Internet through Taiwan tariff plans.
From a design perspective, SIMBOX's usage model is very suitable for those who still need to maintain telephone contact with Taiwan while traveling abroad, and at the same time hope to access the Internet through a Taiwan SIM card (for example, using a Taiwan SIM card to access the Internet and thus achieve the purpose of "climbing the firewall" in China), so as to avoid missing out on contact with relatives, friends, and partners in Taiwan while traveling or on business trips. If you already have an unlimited Internet plan in Taiwan, you can also fully use it overseas with SIMBOX.
SIMBOX is expected to be launched in the second half of this year. Initially, it is expected to target the enterprise user market, but will also be available for the general consumer market. It is also expected to be introduced and sold in Taiwan through dealer channels.
Global mobile phone usage patterns will become more flexible
As for the newly launched global phone, the S1, uCloudlink stated that it collaborated with Qualcomm to enhance its network connectivity. The phone features a 5.5-inch screen, dual SIM card slots, and fingerprint unlocking for enhanced user convenience. It also incorporates CloudSIM functionality, allowing users to select a suitable internet plan through a built-in dedicated app or connect to the internet via a locally installed SIM card. The P1, a feature phone designed for specific regions, offers basic calling functions and a Wi-Fi hotspot switch on the side, allowing users to easily connect to the internet via Wi-Fi hotspot sharing.
uCloudlink explained that the main reason for launching two different product forms, S1 and P1, at the same time is to meet the usage needs of different markets. The design concept of P1 is mainly to retain basic calling functions and allow other devices to quickly access the Internet. It is expected to be launched in the near future, while the S1, which is designed in the form of a smartphone, is expected to enter the market next month.
