My first thought is that the type 36 should be replaced with a smartphone level functionality communicator for mobile data applications, integrating the communicator or "dispatch" functionality with a smaller, but no less capable mini tablet. Other than that, badge or wrist, and even subcutaneous implant communicators would be useful for specific mission and environmental concerns.
Fully embracing telepathy should probably be avoided as the default, as several Star Army species are not by default capable of telepathic communications.
But yes, I feel the type 36 has been obsoleted by several pieces of technology available to the Star Army to the point where other factions have more advanced and capable communications equipment, and is...