(iTers News) - SaskTel launches 4G Push-to-Talk (4G PTT) service, the new alternative for the current 10-4 service that operates on the CDMA network.  SaskTel selected Kodiak Networks InstaPoC as the technology platform for its next generation of 4G PTT. The new 4G PTT service will run over SaskTel's 4G network that covers more than 98% of Saskatchewan's population and connects to the national 4G network.

"Working closely with Kodiak, we have developed an excellent service for our 4G customers," said Jason Durant, SaskTel’s acting Chief Marketing Officer, "We expect the transition to be smooth.  We will waive any early device upgrade fees for current 10-4 subscribers who are ready to upgrade to the new 4G Push-to-Talk devices so they can continue to enjoy the benefits of push-to-talk."

"Kodiak is pleased to partner with SaskTel on its Push-to-Talk solution. Kodiak's PTT technology will enable SaskTel to provide fast, sub-second call set up and a robust PTT feature set to its customers," said John Vice, President and CEO of Kodiak Networks. “"With the broadest 4G-network compatibility, the Kodiak InstaPoC platform is leading the evolution of push-to-talk and provides a powerful ecosystem for instant communication."

With PTT running over the 4G network, call set-up times and response times will be sub-second Users can talk one-on-one or in a group of up to 100 push to talk subscribers.  The new 4G PTT service will include the Samsung Galaxy Rugby LTE smartphone at time of launch and Sonim rugged devices at a later date.  4G PTT will have self-serve capability for set-up, contact and group management. Additionally, the 4G Push-to-Talk system will offer Talker Identification, Instant Personal Alert, and Real-time Presence which gives the user the ability to indicate if they are "available," for a call or in "do not disturb" mode.

(Photo Caption: Samsung Galaxy Rugby Pro - AT&T)