The eMaritime Group, headed up by ECDIS Ltd, has launched a free social network app for seafarers called eMaritime Exchange, for Apple and Android devices.

Global Eagle Entertainment has launched a new Airtime Portal for cruise ships, a platform to enable cruise ship operators to deliver Wi-Fi, instant messaging, social media, live TV, movies, games and news directly to passengers’ mobile devices anywhere on the ship.

UK-based maritime GSM data company Buzz Marine has announced the launch of its new CrewCode service, a voucher based system similar to those used in hotels whereby users are given, or purchase, a code for a fixed data allowance to access onboard Wi-Fi networks.

Global Eagle Entertainment reports that it has expanded its portfolio of live programming delivered by satellite to cruise ships with the addition of new channels for crew members from India and the Philippines.

Globecomm Maritime has launched new metered VSAT plans that can include two separate data bundles to split traffic for operational use from crew communications.

RedPort Global and SMSGlobal have begun a strategic collaboration to develop satellite communications solutions for maritime and enterprise markets, combining business, operations and crew communication services from each company to provide satellite optimisation packages for any vessel or remote workgroup.

NSSLGlobal reports that it has acquired Norwegian IPTV company SnapTV, a deal which will see the companies work together to promote and develop entertainment services for maritime and offshore companies.

Hamburg-headquartered ship operator NSC-Group is to move its fleet of approximately 60 vessels to VSAT, after agreeing a 10GB per ship monthly data deal with Marlink to implement its Sealink service.

SpeedCast has announced the official release of SpeedMail Business Unlimited, a new service bundle offering unlimited business e-mail for the maritime industry at a fixed cost.

MTM Ship Management (MTMSM), an operator of product and chemical tankers, bulk carriers and container ships, has extended its VSAT contract with NSSLGlobal to almost double the number of vessels using its IP@SEA service.