Baron Services introduces the Baron Mobile Link, which, for the first time, will enable users to view XM WX Satellite Weather data on the iPhone and iPad, as well as devices running the Android OS.
“Our customers have asked us for a way to view XM WX weather on their smart phones, iPads, and other tablets, so Baron Services has partnered with leading developers to make this happen,” said Bob Baron, president and CEO. “The Baron Mobile Link will work in conjunction with soon-to-be available apps, providing pilots with greater flexibility and convenience in-flight.”
Currently, several companies are creating apps or integrating new capabilities into their apps for use with Baron Mobile Link, he noted. Digital Cyclone is launching a new version of Pilot MyCast, FlightPrep has announced an update to its iChart app, Hilton Software has developed WingX Pro7, and Foreflight Mobile HD will also be available. All will be able to show XM WX weather data. Other partners are pending in app development as well. Android and iOS based devices will become available first. However, as Baron Mobile Link is compatible with all mobile devices, apps for other operating systems will soon follow, company officials said.
In order to view XM WX data on mobile devices, pilots need an XM WX subscription, antenna and receiver, in addition to the Mobile Link itself and the mobile app of their choice. The process for receiving the information will remain similar to current usage with other display devices: The XM satellites transmit data to the XM antenna and a WxWorx portable receiver, which will be connected to the Mobile Link via USB. From there, the Mobile Link allows for one wireless connection to your choice of mobile device. A standard DC outlet is needed to power the Mobile Link device. The Mobile Link also supplies power to the WxWorx portable receiver via the USB connection.
In the beginning, XM WX products that will be displayed include: High Resolution NEXRAD Radar; Satellite Imagery; METARs; TAFs; TFRs; Winds Aloft; AIRMETs and SIGMETs.
This list of products will be expanded soon after the initial rollout, company officials said, adding they expects the Mobile Link to be available by late second quarter of this year. Introductory price is $199.99.
For more information: BaronServices.com, XMWXWeather.com
