Google has announced a new trial scheme that could provide internet access in remote areas. Instead of using satellite connections, it’s looking into the possibility of putting communications equipment on balloons.

These balloons would be in the stratosphere at about twice the altitude of commercial aircraft and would offer data speeds that were similar to 3G networks.

US space agency NASA has launched three smartphone-powered satellites into orbit around the earth.

Each satellite uses a standard HTC Google Nexus One handset, which runs the Android operating system, although they’ve been given an external battery and a more powerful radio.

Mobile satellite communications company Iridium Communications has reported its financial results for the second quarter of 2012.

Thanks in part to the estimated lifespan of the company’s satellite constellation being longer than previously expected, net income was up 51% year-on-year to $17.7 million (£11.4 million). Total revenue for Q2 was $97.3 million, up 1% year-on-year.

Global satellite communications business Iridium has reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2011.

It ended the year with 523,000 total billable subscribers, up 22% from December 2010 when it had 427,000 customers.

This week’s podcast from The Fonecast includes European & US approval for Google’s acquisition of Motorola, job cuts as Nokia restructures its manufacturing, a new type of upgrade scheme from Phones 4u and security problems for satellite phones.

As always, you can listen to the programme on our website audio player, via iTunes, by using our RSS feed or by downloading the MP3.