Story ID: 071dSiriusAINSept14EditedByAY_NM
SiriusXM Simplifies iPad Weather Display
By: Matt Thurber
Caption: Pilots can subscribe to SiriusXM’s weather and radio products using an iPad that wirelessly connects to the new SXAR1 receiver.
Word Count: 260
SiriusXM’s new SXAR1 receiver simplifies delivery of SiriusXM weather and radio products to iPads. The battery-powered receiver connects wirelessly with one iPad via Bluetooth and can also connect simultaneously to a Bluetooth audio-enabled headset. SiriusXM weather subscriptions range from $34.99 to $99.99 per month and offer access to high-resolution radar with echo tops, satellite imagery, lightning strikes, Metars, TAFs, Pireps, TFRs and other products that vary with the subscription level. SiriusXM radio carries an additional charge, and both products work primarily in the continental U.S. The SXAR1 receiver also includes a Waas/GPS receiver. Retail price is $699 and includes a protective case, AC adapter and USB charging cable.
  
Sporty’s Pilot Shop has added the Iridium Go! portable Iridium satcom to its catalog, in partnership with Appareo, an Iridium distribution partner. The Go! device sells for $875 and offers voice and data communications anywhere in the world and at any altitude. To use the satcom, it must be wirelessly connected to an iPhone or Android device via Wi-Fi, and the device must have the Go! app installed. Once connected, Go! can send and receive text messages, be used for phone calls and also send GPS tracking updates. Limited Web-browsing of mobile apps is also possible. Rate plans range from $499 for a prepaid plan that includes unlimited SOS/emergency messages, 1,200 text messages, 400 minutes of Web/email and 200 minutes of phone calling. Other plans are available for $99.95 to $149.95 per month, and the latter includes unlimited messaging, Web and email and 20 minutes of phone calling, with additional minutes costing $1.15 each.