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@lynwoodjones
January 9, 2025 at 3:58 pm
😮
@ArtGeek2817
January 9, 2025 at 4:04 pm
This exactly pretty useful
@EvansFormica
January 9, 2025 at 4:08 pm
I’m guessing that it does not work on the subway. Is there any device that would give coverage on a subway?
@More_Row
January 9, 2025 at 4:30 pm
you are literally underground there brother.
@deluge6479
January 9, 2025 at 4:34 pm
Not unless they build cell towers and satellites underground, no
@danieldevine
January 9, 2025 at 4:40 pm
Yeah, your phone. carriers just need to put small cells in. Not that hard, places have it already. The tunnel between england and france has 4G
@Fatman305
January 9, 2025 at 4:51 pm
Likely a signal booster external device. YMMV though…
@rosariodagosto6484
January 9, 2025 at 4:21 pm
200for a SMS plus 89 dollars no thanks sweetee
@Nimac91
January 9, 2025 at 4:26 pm
Imagine paying more for this device while buying a used iPhone 14 is cheaper than 280 dollars and does all this for free unlimited times without a Simard in it….
@iLuseMy1v1s
January 9, 2025 at 4:51 pm
Aren’t they supposed to start charging for satellite access?
@Fatman305
January 9, 2025 at 4:56 pm
You can’t sms your mom without SIM on iphone 14, not even in emergencies….
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If you’re using an iPhone 14 without a SIM card, the Emergency SOS via Satellite feature still works, but it remains restricted to emergency use only. The satellite feature is not designed for general communication and does not offer unlimited usage, even without a SIM card. Here’s how it works:
1. Emergency SOS Messages: You can use satellites to contact emergency services when you’re outside of cellular or Wi-Fi coverage. However, this is not for regular messaging or non-emergency communication.
2. Find My Location Sharing: You can share your location via the Find My app over satellite, but again, this is limited to specific circumstances like when you’re in a remote area and not for continuous or unlimited use.
3. Limitations:
Satellite communication requires clear skies and a direct line of sight to the satellite, so it’s not available everywhere.
The feature doesn’t allow regular internet access or general texting/calling.
After the initial free period (typically two years), continued satellite access may require a paid subscription.
In short, even without a SIM card, you cannot use the satellite feature for unlimited communication; it’s strictly for emergencies or limited location sharing.
@TheAegisClaw
January 9, 2025 at 5:00 pm
Only in the US…
@Sw33tBabyRays
January 9, 2025 at 7:32 pm
It’s only for emergency and they are going to start charging for it.
@SusanAErbetta
January 9, 2025 at 4:29 pm
Sweet!
@Mr.Coffee20255
January 9, 2025 at 4:37 pm
I think it Kool so far
@vpnconsult
January 9, 2025 at 4:42 pm
Would prefer the Garmin Inreach
@Fatman305
January 9, 2025 at 4:53 pm
Wayyy too expensive…
—
The Garmin inReach devices are renowned for providing reliable satellite communication, including emergency SOS capabilities, in areas without cellular coverage. Here’s a breakdown of the costs associated with these devices and their subscription plans:
Device Cost:
Garmin inReach Mini 2: This compact satellite communicator is priced at approximately $399.99.
Garmin inReach Messenger Plus: An upgraded model offering additional features, available for $499.99.
Subscription Plans:
As of December 2024, Garmin has streamlined its inReach subscription offerings into three primary month-to-month plans, each requiring a 30-day commitment:
1. Essential Plan:
Monthly Cost: $14.95
Included Messages: 10 per month
Overage Fee: $0.50 per additional message
2. Standard Plan:
Monthly Cost: $34.95
Included Messages: 60 per month
Overage Fee: $0.50 per additional message
3. Premium Plan:
Monthly Cost: $64.95
Included Messages: Unlimited
These plans are designed to cater to varying usage needs, from occasional messaging to frequent communication.
Annual Cost and Message Allowance:
Essential Plan:
Annual Cost: $14.95 × 12 = $179.40
Included Messages: 10 messages/month × 12 months = 120 messages per year
Standard Plan:
Annual Cost: $34.95 × 12 = $419.40
Included Messages: 60 messages/month × 12 months = 720 messages per year
Premium Plan:
Annual Cost: $64.95 × 12 = $779.40
Included Messages: Unlimited
Additional Considerations:
Activation Fee: Garmin may charge a one-time activation fee when initiating a new subscription.
Suspension Option: Previously, Garmin offered a suspended service option for a reduced fee during periods of inactivity. As of the latest updates, this option has been replaced with an $8/month “Enabled Plan,” allowing users to maintain their account at a lower cost when not actively using the device.
Conclusion:
For users seeking the most economical option, the Essential Plan at $14.95 per month offers 10 messages monthly, totaling 120 messages annually, with an overage fee of $0.50 per additional message. This plan is suitable for those with minimal communication needs, primarily relying on the device for emergency situations.
Note: Pricing and plan details are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult Garmin’s official website or contact their customer service for the most current information.
@Fatman305
January 9, 2025 at 4:59 pm
After filtering out the idi0tic suggestions in this comment section, this device clearly goes on my hurricane prep list…though Starlink is higher on that list…
@gmaximenko
January 9, 2025 at 5:10 pm
Motorola Defi it’s is (aka Bullit)
Basic Communications App: Free
Satellite Monthly Plans: $4.99-29.99 per month, for 12 month contract
Satellite One-time Plan: $59.99 (valid for 12 months, includes SOS assist, 250 messages)
@Fatman305
January 9, 2025 at 5:23 pm
Not the prices on their (toyish) site… Where did you get these prices?
@7_of_9
January 9, 2025 at 5:11 pm
It’s cheaper if I put upmy own satellite in space using Rocket Lab and have unlimited dedicated service
@dangitnicky
January 9, 2025 at 6:13 pm
This is super sick for Canadians, much of Western Canada has large towns with nothing in between them. Makes travelling quite dangerous during the winter time.
@CNET
January 9, 2025 at 7:05 pm
Read more on CNET.com: Give Any Phone a Texting Hotspot Connection Using a Satellite, Just Like iPhone 16
@ChrisGraves1119
January 9, 2025 at 7:37 pm
Beyond stupid if you can just buy a new phone with gps for less than that 😂
@BruceLeeRoy26
January 9, 2025 at 7:38 pm
Pixel 9 series and iPhone 15 and newer have this for free (for now). I’m glad to see this technology becoming more popular, I think it’ll take over cellular as the main signal in the next decade. Imagine being able to have service virtually anywhere, no new SIM cards needed or spending money on a cell plan when going overseas. These are great for natural disasters too.
@joecampo1770
January 9, 2025 at 8:02 pm
That satellite technology that is so far existing in the iOS devices is marginal at best, if you’re anywhere that has even a tiny bit of service that is nonfunctional it won’t engage satellite messaging so until they fix that there’s a wide open market for devices like this
@HeyMavDak
January 9, 2025 at 8:05 pm
Nobody is going to spend $200 on instead of buying a new phone.
@thenotoriousgryyn342
January 9, 2025 at 8:17 pm
Cool