Related Sections: Cellphones Security
Obama's new PDA will likely be a super secure military model
Now that President Obama has won the battle to keep his beloved PDA, speculation has begun about what type of device it will be. Given the secret nature of our texter in chief's communications, I expect they'll insist on something a bit more secure than a standard RIM Blackberry or iPhone.
One likely choice is the Sectéra Edge from military defense contractor General Dynamics. That little red button selects a special encrypted classified mode, where the screen turns red while limiting its communications to only those with similarly equipped devices. Used this way, the Edge is certified for voice communications up to the Top Secret level, and up to Secret for text and e mail. The Edge works on both CDMA and GSM networks, with Wi-Fi to be added soon, so Obama can stay in touch anywhere on the globe.
The Edge is available to us regular folks too, although at $3,350 it's unlikely you'll be able to score one for $20 plus a two year contract.
Via, New York Times
By Chris at 2:50 PM ON 01/24/09
General Dynamics? Sounds a lot like Massive Dynamic
By Ashapasian at 5:06 PM ON 01/24/09
Try Global Dynamics anyone?
But seriously, this thing is pretty cool. If only it were a little more Aesthetically pleasing.
By Stan Wingson at 12:40 PM ON 01/25/09
I heard it will be none of this. That they've worked out a deal with RIM and it's a regular blackberry.
By BoxerFanatic at 4:14 PM ON 01/25/09
My question is, who exactly does he need to be messaging with.
He has a staff. National security, economic, secret service, and all sorts of advisors and people at his beck and call...
And he should use texting, e-mail, un-secured voice, and carry an insecure GPS-enabled device, why?
By Chris R at 5:02 PM ON 01/25/09
I agree with Boxer 100%. The POTUS carrying a cell phone is just stupid.
By Downs.86 at 12:25 AM ON 01/26/09
Likely a Military Model??...Seriously? CNN's been running this shit for days! It's just a standard issued PDA with NSA security enhanced linux as the "safe-mode" kernel...basically, any dumbass could hack it.
By Colin at 8:16 PM ON 01/30/09
A secure Blackberry will still not solve the problem of the ability of radio enthuiast to build a device that can track the unique ID number ever celluler type device has. Get within 500 meters and you will be able to know his exact location.
Wouldn't an assassian just love this?
on your cellphone!
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Colin:
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