Wicklow firm Druid Software in 3G breakthrough

Irish technology company Druid Software is one of the key partners in a project making calls, texts, and browsing available to mobile users during air travel.

The Wicklow-based firm was contracted by Panasonic to help it deliver the world’s first in-flight 3G service.

Druid was brought in by the Japanese manufacturer during the 3G development programme to provide technology consultancy services to the project.

Alan Campbell, engineering manager for global communications at Panasonic Avionics, said Druid played a central role in delivering the world-first technology.

“Druid Software has provided vital technology consultancy services to Panasonic Avionics for many years,” he said.

“Druid’s deep knowledge of cellular signalling protocols, and knowledge of avionics platforms has been crucial in the development and roll-out of our in-flight 3G service.”

The service, operated by Panasonic company AeroMobile, allows passengers to use their smartphones for data, text, and voice services during flight as international roamers.

The 3G service is currently being installed on Airberlin’s entire A330-200 fleet and will be extended to other partner airlines in the coming months.

Speaking in Barcelona at the Mobile World Congress, Druid Software director of professional services, Derek Gallagher said: “It has been great working with Panasonic again on another world’s first project.

“Panasonic’s market leading Ku band satellite network makes in-flight 3G a similar experience to using 3G on a terrestrial cellular network.”

Meanwhile, Irish firm Anam Technologies followed news of a multimillion euro investment last week with the announcement it has partnered with Norwegian telecom, Telenor, to deliver an app-to-person SMS initiative across its group, aimed at improving its service quality and revenues.